as in crucial
resulting in either definite success or definite failure
a make-or-break decision The next year will be a make-or-break time for the company.
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Recent Examples of make-or-break
The Greek show will have a 12-meter-high Wall, with two players per episode facing the make-or-break questions, and a cash prize of up to €350,000 ($408,000).
—
Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 4 Sep. 2025
But this fall could present a make-or-break moment.
—Nik Popli, Time, 2 Sep. 2025
While some might desire a taller seat back, that smallest dimension was make-or-break to suit my space constraints.
—Charlotte Collins, Architectural Digest, 2 Sep. 2025
Stock futures were flat early Wednesday as investors turn their eyes to Nvidia earnings, which could be a make-or-break moment for the bull market.
—Pia Singh, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for make-or-break
Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 4 Sep. 2025
But this fall could present a make-or-break moment.
—Nik Popli, Time, 2 Sep. 2025
While some might desire a taller seat back, that smallest dimension was make-or-break to suit my space constraints.
—Charlotte Collins, Architectural Digest, 2 Sep. 2025
Stock futures were flat early Wednesday as investors turn their eyes to Nvidia earnings, which could be a make-or-break moment for the bull market.
—Pia Singh, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for make-or-break
Recent Examples of Synonyms for make-or-break
Adjective
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All that fat is crucial for helping bears survive the harsh Alaskan winter.—
Natalie Krebs,
Outdoor Life,
25 Sep. 2025
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Finding the right combinations Arguably the biggest challenge in any Ryder Cup is figuring out how to help players of an individual sport work together as a team, so selecting the pairings is crucial.—
Don Riddell,
CNN Money,
25 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Multi-year studies were interrupted and often unrecoverable, loss of support personnel to manage animal facilities and lack of resources to purchase mice, inability to purchase routine critical supplies and equipment.—
D. Scott Schmid,
Denver Post,
22 Sep. 2025
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Highlights of his new hour include a celebration of his Palestinian heritage, reflections on the birth of his son, and a critical look at the TSA.—
Matt Grobar,
Deadline,
22 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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The memorial service for Kirk, whom Trump credits with playing a pivotal role in his 2024 election victory, is expected to draw tens of thousands of mourners, including Vice President JD Vance, senior White House officials and young conservatives shaped by the 31-year-old firebrand.—
Aamer Madhani,
Fortune,
21 Sep. 2025
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As to how Corvette will maintain its legacy, Charley Robertson said showing up for the fans and enthusiasts is pivotal.—
Jackie Charniga,
USA Today,
21 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Make-or-break.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/make-or-break. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.
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