Differences between break down and pull down
Break down usually means to analyze or divide something into smaller parts, while pull down generally means to demolish or destroy a building or structure.
Meanings and Definitions: break down vs pull 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.
Pull down
- 1Demolish.
They PULLED the old cinema DOWN to build a new shopping mall.
- 2Make someone depressed.
Losing her job PULLED her DOWN.
- 3Earn.
He's PULLING DOWN a fortune.
Usage Examples: break down, pull 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.
pull down
Example
The city decided to pull down the abandoned factory.
Example
She pulls down the old posters from her wall.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break down
To examine or study something in detail to understand its nature or structure.
Example
The team needs to analyze the data to identify trends and patterns.
To break down or examine something in detail to understand its components or structure.
Example
The biology class will dissect a frog to learn about its anatomy.
deconstruct
To break down or analyze something to reveal its underlying assumptions or meanings.
Example
The literary analysis will deconstruct the poem to understand its themes and symbolism.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pull down
To destroy or tear down a building or structure.
Example
The city plans to demolish the old factory to make way for a new park.
To completely destroy or level a building or structure.
Example
The army razed the enemy's stronghold to the ground.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “pull”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in break down vs pull down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break down or pull down?
In daily conversation, people use break down more often than pull down. This is because break down is used for more common tasks such as analyzing data or emotions. Pull down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about demolishing a building or structure. So, while both phrases are used, break down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break down and pull down
Break down and pull down are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break down and pull down
The tone of break down and pull down can differ based on context. Break down often carries an analytical or emotional tone when related to analyzing data or emotions, while pull down typically has a destructive or negative tone, especially when referring to demolishing a building or structure.
break down & pull down: Synonyms and Antonyms
Break down
Synonyms
