The phrase "broke silence" refers to someone who becomes vocal after a period of silence. In terms of phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /brəʊk saɪləns/. The word "broke" is pronounced with a long "o" in British English, while the "s" sound in "silence" is pronounced as a soft "s" or a voiced "z" depending on the dialect. The combination of the "k" and "s" sounds can be challenging for non-native English speakers to pronounce accurately.
Broke silence is a colloquial expression widely used to refer to the act of speaking out or breaking a period of silence, often in reference to a sensitive or crucial matter. The term "broke" signifies the action of breaking free from a state of silence or quietude, while "silence" encompasses the absence of sound, noise, or words.
Metaphorically, broke silence generally implies that someone has chosen to share their thoughts, opinions, or information on a particular topic after a period of refraining from doing so. It often carries connotations of courage, defiance, or revelation, as the individual may be revealing something that was previously withheld. The expression can be used to describe various scenarios, such as breaking silence on a controversial issue, implementing a new policy in an organization, unveiling previously unknown information, or simply expressing one's feelings or thoughts after a long period of silence.
The phrase can also be employed in contexts outside verbal communication, signifying a departure from a state of inaction or stillness. For instance, it may describe the moment when a group or community decides to take collective action after being quiet or passive for some time.
In summary, "broke silence" is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe the act of speaking out or breaking a period of silence, often in situations where significant information or opinions are being shared, or when a shift from inaction to action occurs.