Definition

Describing a situation where total income equals total expenses, resulting in no profit or loss.

Example

The company's breakeven point was reached after six months of operation.

Conversation

I finally looked at my budget for the month.

How did it look?

I think I'm going to be breakeven this time, which is a relief.

That's great! It feels good to not be in the red.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

The point where the total income equals the total costs, resulting in no profit or loss.

Example

The company reached breakeven after several months of operation.

Conversation

Have you figured out your budget for the new project yet?

Not really, but I'm hoping to at least reach breakeven this quarter.

That sounds like a good goal! What do you think will help you get there?

Root Explanation

Breakeven is formed from "break" (from Old English "brecan", meaning to shatter or destroy) and "even" (from Old English "efen", meaning level or equal). The term refers to a point where total revenues equal total costs, resulting in neither profit nor loss, hence achieving a level balance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'breaking' even, where your costs and revenues are 'level' or equal, meaning you neither gain nor lose money.

Visually Confused Words