break down
stop working
If a machine or vehicle breaks down, it stops working and cannot be used until it is fixed.
My car broke down on the way to work this morning.
"break" — same verb, different meanings
Phrasal verbs built on "break" — same verb, but the particle changes the meaning. Pick the one that fits.
break
down
break downIf a machine or vehicle breaks down, it stops working and cannot be used until it is fixed.My car broke down on the way to work this morning.
in
break into enter a building or place by force, usually to steal something or without permission.Someone tried to break in while we were on holiday, but the alarm scared them away.
into
break intoto enter a building, car, or other place by force, usually to steal somethingSomeone tried to break into my car last night, but the alarm scared them away.
off
break offTo suddenly stop a relationship, discussion, or agreement.They decided to break off their engagement after realizing they wanted different things.
out
break outTo begin quickly and unexpectedly, especially something bad like a fire, war, or disease.A fire broke out in the kitchen while we were having dinner.
up
break upWhen two people break up, they end their romantic relationship.After dating for two years, they decided to break up.
break in
enter illegally
to enter a building or place by force, usually to steal something or without permission.
Someone tried to break in while we were on holiday, but the alarm scared them away.
break into
enter illegally
to enter a building, car, or other place by force, usually to steal something
Someone tried to break into my car last night, but the alarm scared them away.
break off
end a relationship or talks
To suddenly stop a relationship, discussion, or agreement.
They decided to break off their engagement after realizing they wanted different things.
break out
start suddenly
To begin quickly and unexpectedly, especially something bad like a fire, war, or disease.
A fire broke out in the kitchen while we were having dinner.
break up
end a romantic relationship
When two people break up, they end their romantic relationship.
After dating for two years, they decided to break up.