break somebody's heart

break (one's) heart

To cause one to feel great sadness. This phrase is often said about the end of a romantic relationship. I know Adam broke your heart, but there are lots of guys out there who would treat you well. That poor, skittish cat just breaks my heart—I can't believe someone abandoned her!See also: break, heart

break somebody’s ˈheart

make somebody feel extremely unhappy: That boy is breaking his mother’s heart with his wild ways. ♢ It’s a job I would like, but it won’t break my heart if I don’t get it. ▶ ˈheartbreak noun: He causes his mother nothing but heartbreak. ˈheartbreaking, ˈheartbroken adj.: a heartbreaking story ♢ We were heartbroken by the news.See also: break, heart