Differences between break down and turn down
Break down usually means to divide something into smaller parts, to analyze or explain something in detail, or to stop functioning properly. On the other hand, turn down generally means to reject an offer or request, to decrease the volume or intensity of something, or to refuse an invitation.
Meanings and Definitions: break down vs turn 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.
Turn down
- 1Reduce volume, temperature, etc..
The room was too hot, so she TURNED the heating DOWN.
- 2Reject an offer, invitation, etc..
They offered her the job, but she TURNED it DOWN.
- 3Fold the top covers of a bed down to make it ready for someone to go to sleep.
The hotel staff TURNED DOWN the bed and scattered flower petals on it while we was having dinner.
Usage Examples: break down, turn 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.
turn down
Example
Please turn down the music; it's too loud.
Example
She always turns down the heat before going to bed.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break down
To break something down into smaller parts to understand it better.
Example
The biology teacher asked the students to dissect the frog to learn about its anatomy.
To break something down into simpler substances or components.
Example
The bacteria in the soil help to decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn down
To refuse an offer, request, or proposal.
Example
She had to reject the job offer because it didn't match her career goals.
decline
To politely refuse an invitation or opportunity.
Example
He had to decline the dinner invitation because he was feeling unwell.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “turn”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in break down vs turn down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break down or turn down?
In daily conversation, people use turn down more often than break down. This is because turn down is used for a variety of situations such as declining an invitation, rejecting a job offer, or lowering the volume of music. Break down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about analyzing or explaining something in detail or when something stops working properly. So, while both phrases are used, turn down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break down and turn down
Break down and turn 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 turn down
The tone of break down and turn down can differ based on context. Break down often carries a serious or analytical tone when related to analyzing or explaining something, while turn down typically has a polite and respectful tone, especially when refusing an offer or invitation.
break down & turn down: Synonyms and Antonyms
Break down
Synonyms
