Pronunciation: [bɹˈə͡ʊk ɪt tuː] (IPA) 
The phrase "broke it to" may seem straightforward, but its spelling can be confusing. The "o" in "broke" is pronounced as the /əʊ/ diphthong, while the "i" in "it" is pronounced as the /ɪ/ vowel sound. The word "to" is pronounced with the /uː/ vowel sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, this phrase is written as /brəʊk ɪt tuː/. It is important to understand the correct pronunciation to effectively communicate in English.
"Broke it to" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used in informal speech to refer to the act of delivering or revealing bad or disappointing news to someone, often in a gentle or cautious manner. This expression is particularly used when the news being shared is sensitive, delicate, or has the potential to hurt or upset the listener.
When someone "breaks it to" another person, they are essentially disclosing something that may disrupt the recipient's expectations or desires. The phrase can be understood as a metaphorical representation of the process of breaking or shattering something fragile, as the news may disrupt the recipient's emotional state. It implies that the news is being shared carefully, allowing the listener time to process and adjust to the information.
For instance, if someone is diagnosed with a serious illness, a doctor may "break it to" the patient gently, ensuring they understand the situation but providing emotional support. Similarly, a person might "break it to" their friend that they cannot attend a planned event due to unforeseen circumstances, expressing regret and apologizing for any disappointment caused.
In summary, "broke it to" refers to the act of gradually revealing unpleasant or unwelcome news, taking care to be considerate of the recipient's emotions and allowing them time to process the information.
