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break down

Phrasal verb · B1

break down

Meaning

To stop working (machines); to lose emotional control; to divide into parts.

Example

The car broke down on the motorway.

When to use it

Also "break down the problem into steps".

Intermediate (B1): useful for everyday conversation.

Try "break down" in a sentence

Write two or three sentences with it. Nib checks the grammar and tells you if it sounds natural.

More phrasal verbs

back upTo support someone
bring upTo mention a topic
bump intoTo meet someone by chance
call offTo cancel something planned
carry onTo continue doing something
catch upTo reach the same level or position as others after falling behind
check outTo leave a hotel
come alongTo accompany someone

See all 244 phrases →

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