to stop working, collapse, separate into parts, or explain something step by step
to stop working, fall apart, get very upset, or explain clearly
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
if a machine, vehicle, or system breaks down, it stops working
"Our car broke down on the way to the airport."
My car broke down. It was not something I planned.
— common public anecdotal usage; exact high-profile source uncertain
to become unable to control your feelings and start crying or become very upset
"She broke down when she heard the news."
to divide something into smaller parts in order to explain, study, or organize it
"Let's break the budget down into monthly costs."
if discussions, relationships, or systems break down, they fail or collapse
"Negotiations broke down after six hours of talks."
One of the most common English phrasal verbs. Very frequent in everyday speech, business, science, and emotional contexts.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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