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to break down
[phrase form: break]
01
(of a machine or vehicle) to stop working as a result of a malfunction
Examples
The machinery broke down during the production process, leading to delays.
The old refrigerator broke down, and we had to replace it.
02
to lose control and start crying
Examples
The news of the loss caused her to break down in sorrow.
Witnessing the accident caused the bystander to break down.
03
to make something crumble and fall apart
Examples
The workers broke down the old building for renovation.
The earthquake caused the old bridge to break down.
04
(of a relationship, negotiation, etc.) to fail to function properly
Examples
The negotiations broke down after hours of intense debate.
The relationship broke down under the pressure of constant arguments.
05
to lose control or suddenly collapse due to overwhelming emotions, exhaustion, or physical strain
Examples
The athlete broke down after running a marathon.
Witnessing the accident was too much for her, and she broke down, fainting at the scene.
06
to destroy a barrier by force
Examples
The demolition crew used explosives to break down the old factory's entrance.
In some situations, firefighters use an axe to break down doors during rescues.
07
(in mathematics, chemistry, or grammar) to break into smaller parts or components, especially for a detailed analysis or examination
Examples
Can you break the complex process down for better understanding?
The researcher broke the theory down into its fundamental principles.
08
to turn a substance into smaller components through chemical reactions
Examples
The chemical reaction will break down the pollutant into safer components.
The heat from the reaction helps break down the complex molecules.
09
to process food in the digestive system and transform it into nutrients
Examples
The digestive enzymes help break proteins down into amino acids.
He ca n't break down lactose, so he avoids dairy products.
