What are the definitions of “break down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “break down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb break down is when something stops working, especially a machine or vehicle. For example, it can mean a car stops working, a computer crashes, or a machine stops functioning.
What are the different verb forms of “break down”?
| Root Verb | break down |
| Third Person Singular Present | breaks down |
| Present Participle | breaking down |
| Simple Past | broke down |
| Past Participle | broken down |
Example
My computer breaks down frequently.
Example
His car breaks down often, so he needs a new one.
Example
The old machine is breaking down again.
Example
The printer broke down yesterday, so we couldn't print the documents.
Example
The car had broken down in the middle of the road.
What kind of phrasal verb is “break down”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“break down” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The talks between the two parties broke down.
Example
She broke down in tears after hearing the news.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“break down” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The talks between the two parties broke down.
Example
She broke down in tears after hearing the news.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “break down”?
Good things to know
Does “break down” have an informal or formal tone?
Break down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
