Differences between break down and scale down
Break down means to separate something into smaller parts or to stop working properly, while scale down means to reduce the size, amount, or intensity of something.
Meanings and Definitions: break down vs scale down
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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.
Scale down
- 1Make something smaller than originally planned.
They have had to SCALE DOWN the project because of the costs.
Usage Examples: break down, scale 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.
scale down
Example
The company decided to scale down their expansion plans.
Example
She scales down her travel plans due to financial constraints.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break down
To examine or study something in detail to understand its components or structure.
Example
We need to analyze the data to identify patterns and trends.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Scale down
To make something smaller in size, amount, or intensity.
Example
The company decided to reduce its workforce to cut costs.
To remove or cut off excess or unnecessary parts of something.
Example
She trimmed the bushes in her garden to give them a neater shape.
To reduce the size or number of employees, operations, or assets of a company or organization.
Example
The company had to downsize due to financial difficulties and global competition.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “scale”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in break down vs scale down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break down or scale down?
In daily conversation, people use break down more often than scale down. This is because break down is used for a wider range of situations such as analyzing information, describing emotions, or explaining complex ideas. Scale down is more specific and used mainly in business or financial contexts. So, while both phrases are used, break down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break down and scale down
Break down and scale down are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. However, scale down can also be used in formal settings like business or financial reports. In these contexts, it conveys a professional tone and is a suitable alternative to more colloquial expressions like cut back or reduce.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break down and scale down
The tone of break down and scale down can differ based on context. Break down often carries a negative or frustrated tone when related to malfunctioning or emotional distress, while scale down typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to cost-cutting measures or environmental impact.
break down & scale down: Synonyms and Antonyms
Break down
Synonyms
