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Phrasal verbs "break down" vs "calm down"

Differences between break down and calm down

Break down means to stop functioning or to divide something into smaller parts, while calm down means to become less agitated or upset.

Meanings and Definitions: break down vs calm down

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Break down

  • 1End negotiations unsuccessfully.

    The talks between management and the unions BROKE DOWN acrimoniously.

  • 2Start crying.

    He BROKE DOWN in tears.

  • 3Stop working.

    My car's BROKEN DOWN, so I came by taxi.

  • 4Remove a barrier or obstacle.

    He had to BREAK DOWN their opposition to his ideas.

Calm down

  • 1Stop being angry or emotionally excited.

    When I lose my temper, it takes ages for me to CALM DOWN again.

Usage Examples: break down, calm down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

break down

Example

My computer breaks down frequently.

Example

His car breaks down often, so he needs a new one.

calm down

Example

Please calm down and tell me what happened.

Example

She usually calms down after a few minutes of deep breathing.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break down

stop working

To cease functioning properly or completely.

Example

My car stopped working on the highway, and I had to call a tow truck.

fall apart

To disintegrate or collapse due to damage or wear and tear.

Example

The old building fell apart after years of neglect and lack of maintenance.

crash

To suddenly stop working or shut down due to a malfunction or error.

Example

The computer crashed in the middle of an important presentation, causing a delay.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Calm down

relax

To become less tense or anxious and more at ease.

Example

After a long day at work, she likes to relax by taking a warm bath and reading a book.

chill out

To calm down or relax, especially after being angry or upset.

Example

He needed to chill out after the argument with his friend, so he went for a walk in the park.

take it easy

To slow down or reduce stress and pressure on oneself.

Example

She decided to take it easy for a few days and not worry about work or deadlines.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

Differences in break down vs calm down: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: break down or calm down?

In daily conversation, people use calm down more often than break down. This is because calm down is used in a variety of situations where someone needs to relax or control their emotions. Break down is less common and usually used when talking about mechanical or technical issues.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break down and calm down

Break down and calm down are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, calm down can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, while break down is less likely to be used in these situations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break down and calm down

The tone of break down and calm down can differ based on context. Break down often carries a negative or frustrated tone when referring to a machine or system malfunctioning, while calm down typically has a soothing or reassuring tone when addressing someone who is upset or angry.

break down & calm down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Calm down

Synonyms

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