To "break the news" refers to the act of communicating or revealing some information, particularly significant or sensitive, to someone for the first time. This phrase is often used to describe the process of informing someone of an event, development, or situation that may have a notable impact on their life, emotions, or overall understanding of a given situation.
Typically, breaking the news is associated with sharing difficult, distressing, or surprising information. It involves sensitively disclosing the details of an event or circumstance to ensure the recipient is fully aware of the situation at hand. This can be done by providing clear and concise information, delivering the news personally, and conveying empathy towards the individual's potential reaction.
Breaking the news may occur in various contexts such as releasing important information to the public, informing family or friends of a bereavement, or telling an employee about major changes within a company. It requires a degree of sensitivity, as the news being revealed may often lead to emotional responses, shock, or even disbelief.
The phrase "breaking the news" often emphasizes the importance of timeliness and urgency in the delivery of information, suggesting that the information being shared is significant and requires immediate attention or action.
