brokenrecord

A "broken record" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who repeatedly says the same thing, often despite being interrupted or asked not to. The phrase originates from the literal behavior of a vinyl record that has become physically damaged, causing it to skip or repeat the same section of music continuously. When a record is broken or warped, it may get stuck on a particular groove, forcing the same audio to play over and over again.

The term entered common usage in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, as vinyl records became a popular medium for music. Over time, the phrase evolved from its literal meaning to describe repetitive behavior in conversation, arguments, or other contexts where persistence is unwanted. It is often used humorously or critically to highlight someone’s inability—or refusal—to move past a particular point.

In modern usage, "broken record" can also refer to a person who stubbornly insists on the same opinion or argument, even when evidence or logic suggests otherwise. The expression remains widely recognized in informal speech, media, and pop culture, often appearing in discussions about communication, debate, or social interactions. While the original context was tied to physical media, the metaphorical meaning has become a staple in everyday language.