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deal-breaker vs deal breaker

Both "deal-breaker" and "deal breaker" are correct, but "deal-breaker" is the more commonly used form. The hyphenated version is preferred in formal and professional writing.

Last updated: April 01, 2024 • 728 views

deal-breaker

This is the correct form, especially in formal and professional contexts.

The term "deal-breaker" is used to describe something that is significant enough to end negotiations or a deal. It is typically hyphenated in formal writing.
  • That's a deal-breaker.
  • That is a deal-breaker.
  • This is a deal-breaker for us.
  • You know, that this isn't a deal-breaker.
  • That's really a deal-breaker?
  • Worms are a deal-breaker.
  • It's not a deal-breaker.
  • I figured that might be a deal-breaker.
  • (American) The fourth notebook is a deal-breaker.
  • It's a deal-breaker, Danny.
  • T-shirt's a deal-breaker, babe.
  • Now we have to tell her something about Parker that's a deal-breaker.
  • Because you're looking for a deal-breaker.
  • Either way, it's not a deal-breaker.
  • It's a deal-breaker, Tommy.
  • It's kind of a deal-breaker for me.
  • Living in Chicago might be a deal-breaker for that one.
  • The kid thing? It's not a deal-breaker for him anymore.
  • I'm worried that it will be a deal-breaker.
  • It's a deal-breaker, Danny.

Alternatives:

  • non-negotiable
  • showstopper
  • make-or-break
  • critical factor
  • red flag

deal breaker

This form is also correct but less common than "deal-breaker".

While "deal breaker" without a hyphen is acceptable, it is less common and may be seen as less formal. It is used in the same context as "deal-breaker."
  • Well, that could be a deal breaker, and you know it.
  • Considering that the device does not offer expendable storage options, it may be a deal breaker for some.
  • Having kids is a deal breaker for me.
  • Last names are a deal breaker.
  • Everyone seems to have that one thing that's a deal breaker.
  • That might be a deal breaker for some potential buyers, but the Facebook brand is arguably as strong as Google's.
  • It's kind of a deal breaker.
  • Math what is your relationship deal breaker?
  • A long-distance relationship shouldn't be a deal breaker at your age... with her.
  • I don't want to, but this is kind of a deal breaker.
  • I'm afraid an independent testing site is a deal breaker for me.
  • And even if you do, not a deal breaker.
  • It could be a deal breaker.
  • It's a deal breaker for me.
  • It's a deal breaker for me.
  • This might be a deal breaker.
  • What is your number one relationship deal breaker?
  • Because that's a deal breaker.
  • None of that's a deal breaker for her.
  • Because that's a deal breaker for her.

Alternatives:

  • non-negotiable
  • showstopper
  • make-or-break
  • critical factor
  • red flag

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