"Even"

English grammar questions, answered by Alan

Moderator: Alan

Post Reply
User avatar
Dixie
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
Posts: 3836
Joined: Fri Jul 02, 2004 2:08 pm
Status: Teacher of English
Location: Catalunya

"Even"

Post by Dixie »

Hey teachers,

Can you explain to me the meaning of "even" in the Bon Jovi song title Hearts Breaking Even? I've known it for then years now and could never figure out its meaning.

The whole lyrics can be viewed at http://www.lyricsfreak.com/b/bon-jovi/22267.html

Thanks a lot!
User avatar
Alan
Teacher/Moderator
Teacher/Moderator
Posts: 15204
Joined: Mon Dec 29, 2003 7:56 pm
Status: Teacher of English
Location: Japan

Post by Alan »

Actually, the expression 'break even' means 'end up having gained as much as one had lost' - typically in a gambling context. I would imagine its use in the song is some kind of pun (on 'hearts breaking' - i.e. people being emotionally hurt).
Post Reply