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 make-or-break ingredient turns out to be British actor Will Poulter, whose immersive commitment dovetails beautifully with Meeks’ unvarnished sensibility.
—
Peter Debruge, Variety, 25 Jan. 2026
The third year doesn’t strike as make-or-break for DeBoer.
—Seth Emerson, New York Times, 22 Jan. 2026
At Max's Pizzeria and STATS Brewpub, general manager John South says game weekends like this can be make-or-break.
—Leondra Head, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026
Dolan explained why the development of young players was such a critical, make-or-break responsibility for a professional sports franchise.
—Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 7 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for make-or-break
Peter Debruge, Variety, 25 Jan. 2026
The third year doesn’t strike as make-or-break for DeBoer.
—Seth Emerson, New York Times, 22 Jan. 2026
At Max's Pizzeria and STATS Brewpub, general manager John South says game weekends like this can be make-or-break.
—Leondra Head, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026
Dolan explained why the development of young players was such a critical, make-or-break responsibility for a professional sports franchise.
—Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 7 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for make-or-break
Recent Examples of Synonyms for make-or-break
Adjective
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Trump supported Milei’s fiscal program last year with a $20-billion credit line that succeeded in calming markets and boosting Milei’s prospects in a crucial midterm election in October.—
Isabel Debre,
Los Angeles Times,
6 Feb. 2026
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While Singh’s lawyer Jitender Khurana denies any political motive for his client’s paroles, his previous releases coincided with crucial state elections, fueling speculation that his freedom is a reward for the Dera’s electoral support.—
Rhea Mogul,
CNN Money,
6 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
The film received strong critical acclaim upon its release, holding a 95% critical approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.—
Joe Otterson,
Variety,
9 Feb. 2026
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Some 25 million people viewed the spot, by the way, but only 15 commented on it, and most were critical.—
Steven Zeitchik,
HollywoodReporter,
9 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
Trump’s comments have also raised fears among Democrats and voting-rights groups that the president could try to intervene in this year’s pivotal midterm elections, as Republicans try to hold on to slim majorities in both chambers.—
Justin Papp,
CNBC,
13 Feb. 2026
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The partnership was a pivotal moment for Williams and his brand.—
Tara Larson,
Footwear News,
13 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Make-or-break.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/make-or-break. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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