The phrase "breaking and entering" refers to the criminal act of breaking into someone's property and entering it without permission. The spelling of this phrase can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word "breaking" is spelled /ˈbreɪ.kɪŋ/, with the stress on the first syllable and the vowel sound of "ay". The second word "entering" is spelled /ˈen.tər.ɪŋ/, with the schwa sound in the second syllable and the stress on the first syllable. Together, the phrase is pronounced as /ˈbreɪ.kɪŋ ən ˈen.tər.ɪŋ/.
Breaking and entering is a legal term that refers to the act of unlawfully entering someone else's property, typically a building or a dwelling, without their permission or authorization. This offense is considered a serious crime in most jurisdictions and is often associated with burglary and trespassing, although the exact legal definitions may vary.
The term "breaking" in breaking and entering does not necessarily imply physical force or damage to the property. It can also include more subtle forms such as opening locked doors or windows using tools or picking locks without the owner's consent. The mere act of entering a property unlawfully constitutes breaking in many legal systems.
The term "entering" refers to the act of gaining access to the property, whether fully or partially. It encompasses both physical trespassing beyond the threshold of a building as well as unauthorized presence within its confines. This includes stepping inside a building or crossing the boundary lines, such as a fenced-off area or a private yard, without any lawful reason.
Breaking and entering is an offense punishable by law, typically categorized as a felony. The severity of the consequences may vary depending on numerous factors, such as the intent of the offender, the presence of aggravating circumstances like violence or theft, and the applicable legislation. These penalties often include fines, imprisonment, probation, or a combination thereof.