the meaning of break and crack

[XINLAI-UE]

Hi, these my two questions, thanks for your help.

1.Did you break this kid? 2.Yeah, he won't crack. What does "break", " crack " mean in the sentence?

(Script's from Prison Break 01x03)
Philly - Maybe it's 'cause you don't think you have anything to lose anymore, you know?
- You're already locked up.
- You... you know, maybe you, um... maybe you like it here.
- I mean, I don't know.
- But, what I do know is that, if Fibonacci testifies next month,
- you and I are gonna be neighbors.
- And I am not going to let that happen.
John - I don't think you would fit in here, Philly.
- Fancy suits, ties, shirts.
Philly - I think you're right, so, uh...
- so, let's cut to the chase.
- Did you break this kid?
- Did he tell you where Fibonacci is?
- What is this?
John - It's a little gift from me to you.
Philly - Are these his?
John - Yeah, he won't crack.
Philly - Well, perhaps, you should consider using a different methodology then, John.
- From what I gather, there are far worse threats in prison
- other than bodily harm.


Thanks and have a nice day!

[Ouisch]

Whether by means of incessant questioning or physical torture, interrogators hope to eventually wear down the defenses of their subject and make him confess. This is called "breaking" him.

When the subject finally starts revealing information, we say that he has "cracked."

[riverkid]

Originally Posted by XINLAI-UE

Hi, these my two questions, thanks for your help.

1.Did you break this kid? 2.Yeah, he won't crack. What does "break", " crack " mean in the sentence?


Thanks and have a nice day!

Figuratively speaking, to break someone open, usually with threats of harm to them or loved ones, or actual bodily harm, so that they reveal their secrets.

Someone who will not crack, again figuratively speaking, will not open up at all, so any information they have which someone wants stays hidden, held within their person.