start suddenly
A fire broke out in the kitchen while we were having dinner.
break out — 2 meanings
Same words, different jobs. Compare the meanings side by side so you know which one fits the situation.
phrasal verb2 meanings
break outsame phrase
Which one do you mean?
escape
Three prisoners tried to break out of jail last night.
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Meanings in detail
1. start suddenly
B1neutralboth
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.
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Sign in to unlock2. escape
B2neutralboth
To escape from a place or situation, especially by force or secretly.
Three prisoners tried to break out of jail last night.
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