Phrasal verbs "fall apart" vs "fall out"

Differences between fall apart and fall out

Fall apart means to break into pieces or to disintegrate, while fall out means to have a disagreement or argument with someone and stop being friends.

Meanings and Definitions: fall apart vs fall out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fall apart

  • 1Break into pieces.

    The box FELL APART when I picked it up.

  • 2Become emotionally disturbed and unable to behave normally.

    He FELL APART when they sacked him.

Fall out

  • 1Argue and be on bad terms with someone.

    They FELL OUT over the decision and hardly speak to each other any more.

  • 2Lose hair.

    He's started getting worried about baldness because his hair is FALLING OUT rather quickly.

Usage Examples: fall apart, fall out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fall apart

Example

The old chair will fall apart if you sit on it.

Example

The cake falls apart when you try to cut it.

fall out

Example

They always fall out over small issues.

Example

She falls out with her sister quite often.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fall apart

To stop working or functioning properly.

Example

After years of use, the old car finally broke down on the highway.

To break into small pieces or fragments and lose its original form or structure.

Example

The ancient ruins disintegrated over time due to natural erosion and human activity.

To break or fall apart into small pieces or crumbs.

Example

The cookie was so dry that it started to crumble as soon as she picked it up.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fall out

To have a disagreement or argument with someone and stop being friends.

Example

She and her best friend had a falling out after a heated argument about politics.

To gradually become less close or friendly with someone over time.

Example

After college, they drifted apart and lost touch with each other.

To end a relationship or friendship and go separate ways.

Example

After realizing they had different goals in life, they decided to part ways and pursue their own paths.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

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Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in fall apart vs fall out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fall apart or fall out?

In daily conversation, people use fall out more often than fall apart. This is because fall out is used to describe common social situations such as disagreements or arguments. Fall apart is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about physical objects breaking down. So, while both phrases are used, fall out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fall apart and fall out

Fall apart and fall out 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 fall apart and fall out

The tone of fall apart and fall out can differ based on context. Fall apart often carries a sad or frustrated tone when related to objects or plans that don't work out, while fall out typically has a negative and tense tone, especially when referring to relationships or friendships that have ended.

fall apart & fall out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Fall out

Synonyms

Antonyms

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