Break the mould

Meaning

The idiom "break the mold" means to do something that deviates from or challenges traditional or established norms, patterns, or expectations. It refers to breaking free from conformity and taking a unique or unconventional approach to something.

Usage

• She decided to break the mold and start her own business instead of following in her father's footsteps.
• The new CEO's vision was to break the mold of the company's outdated practices and embrace innovation.
• The fashion industry is constantly breaking the mold with new trends and styles that challenge traditional norms.
• The artist's latest painting challenged the mold of traditional art by incorporating technology and unconventional materials.
• In the face of adversity, the community came together to break the mold and overcome their differences.

Roots and History

The idiom "break the mold" dates back to the 16th century when it was used in the context of casting metal. A mold was used to create a shape or object by pouring molten metal into it. If the mold was broken, the metal could no longer be poured into it, and a new shape or object had to be created using a different mold. Over time, the idiom evolved to refer to breaking free from established norms or patterns in any context.

Synonyms in English

• Challenge the status quo
• Deviate from convention
• Blaze your own trail
• Create your own path
• Break new ground

Synonyms in other languages

• French - "Changer la forme" (to change shape)
• Spanish - "Romper el esquema" (to break the scheme)
• Italian - "Distruggere il modello" (to destroy the model)
• German - "Überschreiten der Normen" (to exceed the norms)
• Mandarin Chinese - "破坏规模" (to break the framework)

Similar Idioms

• don’t give up the day job

• blast from the past

• as simple as that