phrasal verb 'break down'
Phrasal verbMain meaning
break down
[breɪk daʊn]
stop functioning

Other meanings

  • lose control emotionally
  • divide into smaller parts
  • fail in negotiation or system
  • decompose (for substances or organic material)

Example Sentences Using the Phrasal Verb "break down"

  • My car broke down on the way to work.
  • She broke down in tears when she heard the news.
  • Let me break down the budget for you.
  • The talks broke down after two hours.
  • Bacteria help to break down food in the stomach.

Features of Using "break down"

Separability:Inseparable Transitivity:Transitive and Intransitive Level:A2 Verb:break Particle:down

"Break down" is often used in both technical and emotional contexts. Be attentive to the context — the meaning can vary significantly.

Other phrasal verbs with the verb break

broken-heart

break up

end a romantic relationship
burglar

break in

to enter a building illegally
break apart

break apart

to fall into separate pieces
fire-7332965_1280

break out

to start suddenly (fire, war, disease)
break through

break through

force a way past a barrier or obstacle