Pronunciation: [bɹˈe͡ɪk kˈʌvə] (IPA) 
The phrase "break cover" means to emerge from a hiding place or to go public with something previously concealed. The first word, "break," is pronounced [breɪk], with a long "a" sound and a hard "k" at the end. The second word, "cover," is pronounced [ˈkʌvər], with a short "u" sound and a soft "r" at the end. To spell this phrase correctly, remember to use "break" with an "e" and "cover" with a "v" and an "er" at the end.
Break cover is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of emerging or revealing oneself from a hidden or concealed position, usually in a situation where one wishes to remain unnoticed or unseen. This phrase is commonly used in military or espionage contexts, where individuals are trained to carefully maintain their cover or disguise for tactical advantage.
To break cover implies the intentional action of leaving the safety or obscurity of a concealed position and exposing oneself to potential danger or attention. It can also connote the abandonment of a planned course of action or strategy due to unforeseen circumstances or changing conditions.
The term can be metaphorically extended to non-military situations as well, signaling the act of revealing oneself or one's true intentions after a period of secrecy or anonymity. This could occur in various contexts such as journalism, politics, or even social settings.
The phrase "break cover" can also be used in a more figurative sense, symbolizing the act of stepping out of one's comfort zone or taking a risk in order to achieve a desired outcome. It involves leaving behind the safety and familiarity of one's current circumstances and taking a bold step into the unknown.
Overall, "break cover" conveys the notion of emerging from obscurity, revealing oneself, or taking a significant action that alters the existing situation or status quo.
The expression "break cover" has its roots in hunting terminology. It originated in the late 18th century in England when fox hunting was a popular sport. "Cover" refers to the dense vegetation or wooded areas where wild animals, particularly foxes, sought refuge and protection from hunters.
When a fox, for instance, was hiding in cover, it remained hidden and protected. However, when it "broke cover", it emerged from its hiding place and became visible to the hunters. The term "break cover" was then adopted more broadly to describe any sudden emergence or revealing of something or someone from a concealed or protected position.
Over time, the phrase has entered everyday language and extended beyond hunting contexts. It is now used metaphorically to depict situations where someone or something "breaks cover" by emerging from secrecy, obscurity, or safety into public view or action.
