as in improvement
an instance of notable progress in the development of knowledge, technology, or skill
Alexander Fleming's discovery of penicillin was one of medicine's great breakthroughs, for penicillin became the first antibiotic to successfully combat bacterial infections in humans
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Recent Examples of breakthrough
The revelation is tied to a breakthrough Hannah has in her songwriting for the Pop Music Showcase at their college, Briar University, where Hannah hopes to win a scholarship since the funding for her previous one has run out.
—
Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 15 May 2026
This appears to be a breakthrough for productivity.
—Victor Fang, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
The dual eye-popping performance was a culmination of a lifetime in the event for Witt, a season of breakthroughs for Bell, and consistent camaraderie and competition between the two long jumpers.
—Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 15 May 2026
The mere fact that Beirut and Jerusalem are communicating directly is a major breakthrough in itself, as interactions with Israel have long been banned under Lebanese law.
—Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 15 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for breakthrough
Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 15 May 2026
This appears to be a breakthrough for productivity.
—Victor Fang, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
The dual eye-popping performance was a culmination of a lifetime in the event for Witt, a season of breakthroughs for Bell, and consistent camaraderie and competition between the two long jumpers.
—Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 15 May 2026
The mere fact that Beirut and Jerusalem are communicating directly is a major breakthrough in itself, as interactions with Israel have long been banned under Lebanese law.
—Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 15 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for breakthrough
Recent Examples of Synonyms for breakthrough
Noun
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But first, some improvements would be necessary.—
Rachel Monroe,
New Yorker,
14 May 2026
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In an interview with Jim Cramer last week, CVS CEO David Joyner acknowledged its Aetna business got off track but said it’s now seen five quarters of improvement.—
Jeff Marks,
CNBC,
13 May 2026
Noun
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Other declarations included in the filings indicate federal authorities had geared up for the raid weeks in advance.—
Madeline Buckley,
Chicago Tribune,
13 May 2026
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He is widely recognized for his ability to partner with boards and nonprofit foundations, align programming with donor interests, and advance capital-ready projects.—
News Release,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
13 May 2026
Noun
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Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more.—
Katie Hunt,
CNN Money,
17 May 2026
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While future research is needed to further validate this emerging method, the authors have contributed to advancements in how this science is conducted, innovating research methods that will help scholars study the past with greater accuracy.—
Maria Mocerino,
Interesting Engineering,
17 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Breakthrough.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/breakthrough. Accessed 20 May. 2026.
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