Like a broken record Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation The phrase often implies annoyance or frustration towards the repetition. The teacher explained the rule again, sounding like a broken record. Pro Tip 2/3Emphasizes Repetition Use when highlighting excessive repetition of words or actions by someone. She kept saying we were late like a broken record. Pro Tip 3/3Idiomatic Usage Understand that it is an idiomatic expression; its meaning isn't literal but figurative. His excuses were like a broken record, the same every time.