Break down
/breɪk daʊn /B1
PreIntermediate
1. To stop functioning, especially in terms of machinery or vehicles.
- The car broke down on the way to the airport, causing us to miss our flight.
- Her washing machine broke down, and she had to call a repairman.
2. To undergo a mental or emotional collapse.
- After hearing the news of his friend's accident, he broke down and cried.
- She broke down during the meeting and had to leave the room.
3. To divide something into parts to improve understanding, especially in analysis or computation.
- The teacher broke down the complex theory into simpler parts for the students.
- Let's break down the budget to see where we can save money.
4. To burst into pieces or disintegrate physically.
- The old bridge broke down in the storm, leaving the village inaccessible.
- The ancient ruins had slowly broken down over the centuries.
Synonyms:
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