break the record

break the/a record

To do something to a higher or greater degree than the greatest extent currently known. With his speed, I think he'll break a record for running before he graduates from high school. If he eats one more hot dog he's going to break the record!
See also: break, record
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

break the record

1. Surpass a previous achievement, as in He was determined to break the record for the high jump. This usage is applied primarily to sports of various kinds. [1880s]
2. Move very fast, as in The lecture was so dull that we broke the record getting to the door: [Second half of 1900s]
See also: break, record
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
See also:
  • break a record
  • break the/a record
  • be a man/woman of his/her word
  • of word
  • calculate on
  • calculate on (something)
  • good as (one's) word
  • good as one's word, as
  • a kick at the can
  • a kick at the cat
References in periodicals archive
Ms Breed, who is determined to return to break the record, added: "I feel like I could do it in the right conditions.
Catherine's a tough Breed as she swims North Channel
Trippier's superb fifth-minute free-kick saw Southgate's men break the record but they could not book a place in the final, with Croatia winning 2-1 after extra time.
England break World Cup goals record
It is said that it is risky business to actually try and break the record, if failed it could cause severe injuries that could lead to amputation.
A 34 year old Singapore man broken a long standing record of having sex with 57 women
"So we quickly changed the challenge and asked the Majid Al Futtaim family to break the record by the size of the final image.
Dubai firm breaks record in wooden block mosaic
Ripken was a lifelong Maryland resident and getting to break the record before his hometown team made the event a remarkable experience for Orioles fans.
Two decades later, Ripken's record remains a testament to work ethic
I am looking forward to Dubai Marathon as I love Dubai and the flat course will make it easier (hopefully) to break the record. This will be my first time running Dubai marathon, I have heard great things about it and very excited.
Wearing gas mask, this man runs for a cause
Among the students to break the record was grade five GEMS student Ayah Bait Jameel, who is half Morrocon and half Omani.
UAE breaks world record for most nationalities singing one anthem at one time
"It was brilliant to have the crowd all joining in and helping us to break the record. We were over the moon to receive the certificate and be officially crowned Guinness World Record holders." The walk raised PS68,00 and all proceeds have gone towards providing hospice care.
Hand jiving fundraisers make it into record books
The record attempt was part of a global bid by waterparks across the world to break the record.
Residents break swim record at Abu Dhabi'a Yas Waterworld
"I was really inspired by Paul Tergat when he broke the world record here 10 years ago and I'm very happy that I was in a position to break the record on the same course."
Kenya's Wilson Kipsang Breaks Marathon World Record in Berlin
Later on Monday, students will attempt to break the record for the largest national flag.
Pakistan sets largest human mosaic record
"It's nice to break the record of two fine players," said James, who ended the day unbeaten on 193 as Glamorgan closed on 457 for one.
Openers break a 28-year-old record; RETRO REPORT August 23, 2000 - How we covered..
Couples in Thailand have locked lips to try and break the record for the world's longest kiss.
World record longest kiss attempt in Thailand
Gundry said: "It was great to break the record on Ned The Post because he's owned by Roger Maggs, who has supported us from day one.
Gundry sets point-to-point record
Why not come along and join in the magic, meet Pudsey and support the young people in their efforts to break the record.
Blues chasing new record by passing for Pudsey