"Breaking in" is a two-word phrasal verb that means to enter a new environment, usually with the intention of adapting to it. The IPA phonetic transcription for "breaking in" is /ˈbreɪkɪŋ ɪn/, pronounced as "BRAY-king in." The word "breaking" has a long "a" sound, represented by /eɪ/, while the "in" sound is pronounced as /ɪn/. This spelling helps differentiate it from the word "braking," which has a short "a" sound, represented by /æ/, and means to slow down or stop.
Breaking in is a term that refers to the act of making something new, especially an object or piece of equipment, ready for use through a process of initial use or wear. It involves using or operating something, typically for a period of time, in order to familiarize oneself with its function, gain experience, and allow the item to adjust or adapt to regular use.
The concept commonly applies to a wide range of items such as shoes, clothes, appliances, vehicles, or even mechanical devices. When breaking in shoes or clothes, for instance, it means wearing them repetitively to soften the material, reduce stiffness, and mold them to the shape of the body, thereby enhancing comfort. Similarly, breaking in mechanical devices, such as engines or machinery, generally implies running them at reduced loads initially to promote smoother operation, reduce friction, and eliminate any potential structural defects.
Breaking in is vital as it allows users to acclimate themselves to an object's characteristics and functioning, facilitating optimal utilization over time. This process is often recommended to ensure longevity, prevent potential malfunctions, or maximize performance. However, the extent and necessity of breaking in can vary depending on the specific item or manufacturer's instructions.
Overall, breaking in can be seen as an essential step in the utilization of new objects, providing users with customization, familiarity, and improvement in the performance of an item through initial use and experience.
The phrase "breaking in" can have various meanings, depending on the context. Here, we will explore its etymology within the context of "breaking in" related to training or introducing something new.
The term "breaking in" originates from the combination of two different words: "breaking" and "in".
1. Breaking:
- The term "breaking" has Old English roots, derived from the verb "brecan", which means "to break" or "to divide".
- In the context of training or taming animals, "breaking" refers to the process of rendering them obedient and submissive to human commands. This usage dates back to the 14th century, based on the Middle English word "breken".
- Over time, the term expanded to include other domains, such as "breaking in" new recruits in the military or "breaking in" a vehicle's engine to ensure it functions optimally.