break down — 4 meanings

Same words, different jobs. Compare the meanings side by side so you know which one fits the situation.

phrasal verb4 meanings

break downsame phrase

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stop working

My car broke down on the way to work this morning.

lose emotional control

She broke down in tears when she heard the news.

explain in parts

Let me break down the process so everyone understands.

collapse negotiations

Talks between the two companies broke down after neither side was willing to compromise.

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B1neutralboth

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.

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B2neutralboth

If someone breaks down, they suddenly become very upset and cannot control their feelings, often crying.

She broke down in tears when she heard the news.

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B2neutralboth

To break something down means to explain it by dividing it into smaller, simpler parts.

Let me break down the process so everyone understands.

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C1neutralboth

If talks, negotiations, or discussions break down, they fail completely and cannot continue, often due to disagreement.

Talks between the two companies broke down after neither side was willing to compromise.

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