break rank

[/breɪk ræŋk/]
verb
sair da fila; desistir do grupo; discordar publicamente
1. To step out of a line or formation, especially in a military or organized context
The soldier broke rank during the parade.
O soldado saiu da fila durante o desfile.
2. To publicly disagree with or abandon a group position, policy, or consensus
Several senators decided to break rank and vote against their party's bill.
Vários senadores decidiram sair da fila e votar contra o projeto do seu partido.
3. To rebel against established convention or group solidarity
The executive broke rank by speaking out against the company's practices.
O executivo saiu da fila ao falar publicamente contra as práticas da empresa.
This phrase originates from military protocol but is widely used in political, corporate, and social contexts in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese. In the United States, it often carries political significance when describing members of Congress or party members who vote against party expectations. In Brazil, it's commonly used to describe anyone publicly disagreeing with a group consensus, whether in politics, business, or popular culture.
NYC Slang
step out of line; go rogue; diss the crew
Synonyms / Sinônimos
dissentdefectrebeldeviatedepart from the groupgo against the grain
Antonyms / Antônimos
conformcomplytoe the linefollow ordersstay in line

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
sair da fila; discordar publicamente
Most common expression for the figurative sense
Rio de Janeiro
sair da fila; não seguir a turma
Colloquial usage emphasizing group dynamics
São Paulo
discordar da linha; sair do consenso
More formal, business-oriented usage
Portugal
sair da fila; discordar abertamente
Similar to Brazilian Portuguese with slight variations in emphasis

Related Words

mutinydefectiondissensioninsubordinationnonconformitysolidarity

Related Idioms & Phrases

toe the line (opposite meaning)
go against the grain
march to the beat of a different drum
pull out of the ranks
defect from the ranks
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