Definition

Noun: - (Tennis): A situation in a tennis match where the player who is receiving service wins a game. This results in the server losing their service game. The term specifically refers to the single game won by the receiver, which "breaks" the opponent's sequence of serving games.

Usage

This term is used exclusively in the context of tennis and related racket sports to describe a pivotal scoring event. - The primary focus is on the act of winning a game as the receiver. - It is a key strategic objective, as holding one's own serve is generally expected.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Winning that break of serve in the first set gave her the confidence she needed.
  • The match turned when he secured a crucial break of serve at 4-4 in the final set.
  • To win, you usually need at least one break of serve per set.

Advanced Usage

• "To get/have a break": A common shortened form in commentary and casual speech.
  • She needs to get a break here to stay in the set.
• "Double break": When a player achieves two breaks of serve in a single set, leading by two games.
  • With a double break advantage, he is in complete control of the set.

Variants and Related Words

• Break point (n): The specific point within a game where the receiver can win the game and thus achieve a break of serve.
  • He saved three consecutive break points.
• Service break (n): A fully synonymous term for 'break of serve'.
  • The service break in the ninth game decided the match.

Synonyms

• Service break: The direct and most common synonym.
• Break: The abbreviated, informal synonym used in context.

Related Phrases

• To break serve (verb phrase): The action of achieving a break of serve.
  • She managed to break serve twice in the second set.
• To hold serve (verb phrase): The opposite action; to win a game when one is serving.
  • His ability to hold serve under pressure is impressive.

Noun

1. (tennis) a score consisting of winning a game when your opponent was serving
   • he was up two breaks in the second set