: allowing no middle ground between success and failure

Examples of make-or-break in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As ambient becomes standard, point-solution vendors face a make-or-break moment. David Chou, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2025 Gaines says these are make-or-break for a functional, but still beautiful, entryway. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Aug. 2025 Ballard recently scoffed at the idea of Richardson’s 2025 campaign being a make-or-break season; four weeks later, the Colts have asked for a break from Richardson — perhaps permanently. James Boyd, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2025 As far as the games most likely to determine Boston’s ultimate playoff fate, there are five series fans will want to circle on the calendar as potential make-or-break opportunities. Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 15 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for make-or-break

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of make-or-break was in 1919

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Cite this Entry

“Make-or-break.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/make-or-break. Accessed 28 Aug. 2025.

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