| 词汇 | break ranks |
| 释义 | Idiom break ranks to do or say something different from what a group you belong to does or says.Two owners broke ranks and said they were against locking out the players. Usage notes: often followed by with: They decided to break ranks with the alliance and work independently for a solution. the origin note doesn't make the meaning clear unless you explain "break" too--SL, 1/03 Etymology: based on the military meaning of break ranks (= to walk away from a straight row in which you and other soldiers have been standing) break ranks1. Literally, to step out of a military formation. Don't break ranks, or the drill sergeant will lose it. 2. By extension, to behave in a way that is different from or opposes the other members of a group that one is a part of. You're a part of management now—if you disagree with their initiatives, then you need to break ranks. break ranksFall out of line or into disorder; also, fail to conform, deviate. For example, The recruits were warned that they must not break ranks, or Harry was told to adhere to the party platform and not break ranks. This idiom uses rank in the sense of "soldiers drawn up in line," and the term originally referred to their falling into disarray. The figurative usage dates from the mid-1800s. break ranksorbreak rankCOMMON If someone breaks ranks or breaks rank, they do not follow the instructions or opinions of their group or organization, and instead, say or do something that shows a different opinion. Note: A rank of soldiers is a line of them standing side by side. Would you break ranks with your party and vote against the president's tax bill? A former cabinet minister has broken ranks to protest at the Government's plans to cut the education budget. Note: When soldiers break ranks, they stop standing in a line and move apart. break rank (or ranks)1 (of soldiers or police officers) fail to remain in line. 2 fail to maintain solidarity.break ˈranks(of the members of a group) refuse to support a group or an organization of which they are members: Large numbers of MPs felt compelled to break ranks over the issue.This idiom refers to soldiers, police etc. failing to remain in line. break ranksFail to conform. The term originated in the military, where “rank” means “soldiers drawn up in rank,” and signifies falling out of order and into disarray. In the mid-1800s, it began to be used figuratively, as in “Don’t break ranks; you’ve got to follow the official party platform.” |
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