break the bank

Register · Informal Informal — used in casual, everyday conversation among friends and family. Avoid in formal writing or professional settings. CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

To cost so much that it uses up all your money.

Why this phrase?

From gambling, when a player wins more than the house can pay.

Example

“A weekend trip won't break the bank if we drive instead of fly.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

cost an arm and a leg Informal · CEFR B1

To be extremely expensive.

a rip-off Informal · CEFR B1

Something that is far too expensive for what it is.

money doesn't grow on trees Informal · CEFR B1

Used to remind someone that money is limited and hard to earn.

tighten your belt Neutral · CEFR B1

To spend less money because you have less than before.

cost the earth Informal · CEFR B2

to be extraordinarily expensive

in the red Neutral · CEFR B2

Owing money or operating at a financial loss.

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

markdown