break into pieces
My old shoes are starting to fall apart after years of use.
fall apart — 3 meanings
Same words, different jobs. Compare the meanings side by side so you know which one fits the situation.
phrasal verb3 meanings
fall apartsame phrase
Which one do you mean?
become emotionally unable to cope
She fell apart after hearing the bad news.
fail or collapse as a plan
The project fell apart when the team leader quit.
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Meanings in detail
1. break into pieces
B1neutralboth
To break into separate parts, usually because something is old, weak, or damaged.
My old shoes are starting to fall apart after years of use.
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B2neutralboth
To lose control of your emotions and feel unable to deal with a situation.
She fell apart after hearing the bad news.
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B2neutralboth
To stop working or fail completely, especially for plans, systems, or organizations.
The project fell apart when the team leader quit.
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