break down (B1)

phrasal verb

Pronunciation: /ˈbreɪk ˌdaʊn/

Definition

To stop functioning or working, especially for a machine or system.

Examples

• The washing machine broke down in the middle of a cycle, flooding the laundry room.

• Negotiations between the two countries broke down after several days of intense discussions.

• Her immune system started to break down, making her vulnerable to infections.

How to Use break down

break down (machine/system) (collocation)

A machine or system stops working. — "My computer keeps breaking down."

break down in tears (idiom)

To start crying uncontrollably. — "She broke down in tears after the argument."

break down barriers (collocation)

To remove obstacles or difficulties between people or groups. — "Art can help to break down cultural barriers."

break down information (collocation)

To divide information into smaller, more understandable parts. — "We need to break down this complex data."

Synonyms of break down

Words with a similar meaning to break down:

• fail
• malfunction
• collapse
• deteriorate

Antonyms of break down

Words with the opposite meaning to break down:

• function
• repair

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