breakdown

[ˈbreɪkdaʊn]

breakdown Definition

• 1. a failure of a machine, system, or relationship to function normally
• 2. a sudden collapse in someone's mental health
• 3. an analysis or classification of something into its component parts

Using breakdown: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "breakdown" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The breakdown of the car left us stranded on the highway.

• Example

  The breakdown of communication between the two countries led to a diplomatic crisis.

• Example

  She suffered a nervous breakdown after her husband's death.

• Example

  The breakdown of the report into different sections made it easier to understand.

• Example

  The breakdown of the expenses showed that we spent more on food than on transportation.

breakdown Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for breakdown

• failure
• collapse
• disintegration
• crash
• meltdown

Antonyms for breakdown

• functioning
• stability
• success

Idioms Using breakdown

• have a breakdown

  to experience a sudden collapse in one's mental health

  Example

  She had a breakdown after her divorce and had to take time off work.

• break down barriers

  to remove obstacles that prevent communication or understanding

  Example

  The new program aims to break down barriers between different cultures.

• break down in tears

  to start crying uncontrollably

  Example

  She broke down in tears when she heard the news.

Phrases with breakdown

• breakdown lane

  an emergency lane on a highway for vehicles that have broken down

  Example

  He pulled over onto the breakdown lane when his car started smoking.

• breakdown cover

  insurance coverage that provides assistance if a vehicle breaks down

  Example

  I have breakdown cover in case my car stops working.

• breakdown service

  a service that provides assistance if a vehicle breaks down

  Example

  I called the breakdown service when my car wouldn't start.

📌

Summary: breakdown in Brief

The term 'breakdown' [ˈbreɪkdaʊn] refers to failures in machines, systems, or relationships, as well as sudden collapses in mental health. It can also denote an analysis or classification of something into its component parts. Examples include 'The breakdown of the car left us stranded on the highway.' and 'She suffered a nervous breakdown after her husband's death.' Phrases like 'breakdown lane' and idioms like 'have a breakdown' extend the term's usage.