Differences between break down and take down
Break down means to separate something into smaller parts or to stop working correctly, while take down means to remove something from a higher position or to write down information.
Meanings and Definitions: break down vs take 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.
Take down
- 1Make notes or write down in full.
The police TOOK DOWN his answers to their questions.
- 2Remove.
People TAKE DOWN their Christmas decorations twelve days after Christmas.
Usage Examples: break down, take 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.
take down
Example
Please take down the old calendar from the wall.
Example
She takes down the laundry from the clothesline.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break down
To stop working correctly or as intended.
Example
The car malfunctioned on the highway, causing a traffic jam.
To fall apart or disintegrate into small pieces.
Example
The old building started to crumble due to years of neglect and lack of maintenance.
To examine something in detail to understand its components or structure.
Example
The scientist needed to analyze the data to draw accurate conclusions.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take down
To take something off or down from a higher position.
Example
Can you help me remove the picture from the wall?
To take apart or disassemble something into its individual parts.
Example
The mechanic needed to dismantle the engine to fix the problem.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in break down vs take down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break down or take down?
In daily conversation, people use take down more often than break down. This is because take down is used for more common tasks such as writing notes or removing decorations. Break down is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about machinery or vehicles that stop working. So, while both phrases are used, take down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break down and take down
Take down and break 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 take down
The tone of take down and break down can differ based on context. Take down often carries a practical or organized tone when referring to writing notes or removing objects, while break down typically has a frustrated or negative tone, especially when referring to machinery or vehicles that stop working.
break down & take down: Synonyms and Antonyms
Break down
Synonyms
