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
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Zelenskyy’s comments come as tensions are likely to be running high in Kyiv, with the U.S. vote regarded as a potentially make-or-break moment in the country’s yearslong fight against Russia.
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Sam Meredith, CNBC, 6 Nov. 2024
The company faces a potential make-or-break moment that will be decided by voters Tuesday.
—Matt Egan, CNN, 5 Nov. 2024
Here’s a closer look at the messaging that’s been coming out of the campaigns on what could be the make-or-break issue of the general election.
—Tobias Burns, The Hill, 5 Nov. 2024
Nashville is merely six years removed from voters emphatically rejecting a transit ballot measure, setting the stage for what seems to be a make-or-break referendum Tuesday.
—Nate Rau, Axios, 4 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for make-or-break 
Sam Meredith, CNBC, 6 Nov. 2024
The company faces a potential make-or-break moment that will be decided by voters Tuesday.
—Matt Egan, CNN, 5 Nov. 2024
Here’s a closer look at the messaging that’s been coming out of the campaigns on what could be the make-or-break issue of the general election.
—Tobias Burns, The Hill, 5 Nov. 2024
Nashville is merely six years removed from voters emphatically rejecting a transit ballot measure, setting the stage for what seems to be a make-or-break referendum Tuesday.
—Nate Rau, Axios, 4 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for make-or-break
Recent Examples of Synonyms for make-or-break
Adjective
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His five-year pro bono initiative provides crucial guidance to Veteran organizations, ensuring sustainable growth and long-term success.Grace Butler, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024
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Color temperature affects how light looks and feels, and the distinction between the temperatures is crucial in setting the mood and enhancing aesthetics.Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Dec. 2024
Adjective
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But Hurts hasn’t been reliable on a passer in critical scenarios.Brooks Kubena, The Athletic, 9 Dec. 2024
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Having that personality turned into a place, a space to touch books, to discover stories, is critical to communities being able to see themselves more clearly.American Booksellers Association, USA TODAY, 8 Dec. 2024
Adjective
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Topline Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled Syria Sunday after rebels seized control of Damascus, Russia’s foreign ministry said—a pivotal moment in the years-long civil war against the regime that has controlled Syria since the 1970s.Sara Dorn, Forbes, 8 Dec. 2024
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Hutchinson's shocking return would provide a massive boost for the Detroit defense at the most pivotal moment of the season.Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 8 Dec. 2024
Thesaurus Entries Near make-or-break
Cite this Entry
“Make-or-break.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/make-or-break. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.
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