What does "breaking" refer to in a legal context?

In a legal context, "breaking" generally refers to exerting physical force to remove an obstruction in order to gain entry to a property. This can involve actions such as forcing open a door or window or otherwise bypassing a barrier to enter without permission. The concept emphasizes the physical act of breaching a barrier rather than merely entering the property itself, which can also occur in other ways, such as through manipulation or deceit.

Understanding this definition is crucial when considering laws about breaking and entering, as it frames the severity of the crime based on the method of entry. This reinforces why the option related to physical force stands out, distinguishing it from concepts like entering without permission or obtaining entry through fraud, which, while relevant to the overall crime of burglary, do not encapsulate the specific legal meaning of "breaking."