Differences between fall apart and pull apart
Fall apart means to break into pieces or to stop working properly, while pull apart means to separate something into its individual pieces or parts.
Meanings and Definitions: fall apart vs pull apart
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.
Pull apart
- 1Destroy an argument, theory, etc.
My tutor PULLED my essay APART.
- 2Stop people or animals fighting.
A fight broke out in the pub and it was hard to PULL the people involved APART.
- 3Make someone unhappy or upset.
It PULLED me APART to see them arguing so much.
Usage Examples: fall apart, pull apart 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.
pull apart
Example
She tried to pull apart the tangled wires.
Example
He pulls apart the old furniture to recycle the wood.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fall apart
To break into small pieces or to collapse under pressure.
Example
The old building started to crumble due to years of neglect and lack of maintenance.
To break into small pieces or to decay over time.
Example
The ancient manuscript started to disintegrate due to exposure to humidity and light.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pull apart
To take apart or to separate something into its individual parts.
Example
He had to disassemble the engine to fix the broken part.
To take apart or to remove the components of a structure or machine.
Example
The old bridge was dismantled to make way for a new one.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “fall”
Phrasal Verbs with “pull”
Phrasal Verbs with “apart”
Differences in fall apart vs pull apart: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: fall apart or pull apart?
In daily conversation, people use fall apart more often than pull apart. This is because fall apart is used for more common situations such as describing a broken object or a person's emotional state. Pull apart is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about physically separating something into its individual parts. So, while both phrases are used, fall apart is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fall apart and pull apart
Fall apart and pull apart 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 pull apart
The tone of fall apart and pull apart can differ based on context. Fall apart often carries a negative or sad tone when related to a person or object breaking down, while pull apart typically has a neutral or practical tone, especially when referring to physically separating objects.
fall apart & pull apart: Synonyms and Antonyms
Fall apart
Synonyms
