1. A rail that is fractured, damaged, or no longer intact, typically in a railway track
The accident was caused by a broken rail on the train line.
O acidente foi causado por um trilho quebrado na linha ferroviária.
2. A metaphorical expression referring to a disrupted path, interrupted routine, or derailed plans
His life took a turn when his career plans hit a broken rail.
Sua vida tomou um rumo quando seus planos de carreira encontraram um trilho quebrado.