breakdown
To separate a complex system, idea, or set of data into smaller, simpler parts for easier understanding or analysis. It also refers to a machine or vehicle stopping function due to a mechanical failure.
Examples
3 of 5My old car tends to break down whenever the weather gets too cold.
My old car often stops working whenever the weather becomes extremely cold.
The mediator attempted to break down the complex legal terms into language the family could understand.
The mediator tried to simplify the difficult legal vocabulary into words the family could comprehend.
Just break it down for me: how much is this going to cost in total?
Explain it simply: what is the final total price of this?
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'KitKat' bar: to see the layers inside, you have to 'break' it 'down' into individual sticks.
Quick Quiz
To understand the annual report, we need to ______ the revenue into monthly segments.
Correct!
The correct answer is: break down
Examples
My old car tends to break down whenever the weather gets too cold.
everydayMy old car often stops working whenever the weather becomes extremely cold.
The mediator attempted to break down the complex legal terms into language the family could understand.
formalThe mediator tried to simplify the difficult legal vocabulary into words the family could comprehend.
Just break it down for me: how much is this going to cost in total?
informalExplain it simply: what is the final total price of this?
In this study, we break down the demographic data by age, region, and socioeconomic status.
academicIn this research, we categorize the population statistics according to age, location, and economic level.
We need to break down the project tasks so that each team member knows their specific responsibilities.
businessWe must divide the project work into smaller parts so every employee understands their specific role.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
break it down
to explain something in a simple way
break down a door
to use force to open a locked entrance
break down the wall
to overcome prejudice or limitations
Often Confused With
A 'breakthrough' is a positive discovery or progress, while 'break down' often implies failure or a process of taking things apart.
Usage Notes
When used as a verb, it is two words ('break down'). In academic writing, it specifically refers to the methodological process of dividing data into variables.
Common Mistakes
Learners often write 'breakdown' as one word when they are using it as a verb. Remember: 'The car had a breakdown (noun)' but 'The car will break down (verb).'
Memory Tip
Think of a 'KitKat' bar: to see the layers inside, you have to 'break' it 'down' into individual sticks.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old English 'brecan' (to shatter) and the adverb 'down' to indicate a state of collapse or total analysis.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In corporate settings, 'breaking down the silos' is a common phrase used to describe improving collaboration between different departments.
Quick Quiz
To understand the annual report, we need to ______ the revenue into monthly segments.
Correct!
The correct answer is: break down
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
proceed
C1The noun form, typically used in the plural 'proceeds,' refers to the total amount of money received from a particular event, sale, or activity. It is a formal term used in academic, legal, and business contexts to describe the result of a financial transaction or fundraising effort.
individual
C1Relating to a single person or thing as distinct from a group. It describes something that is intended for, or used by, one person rather than a collective entity.
appropriately
B2To perform an action in a manner that is suitable, right, or proper for a particular situation, person, or occasion. It implies following specific social norms, professional standards, or logical requirements.
region
B2A region is an area of land that has common features, such as geography, climate, or culture, which distinguish it from other areas. It can refer to a large part of a country or the world and is often used in administrative or scientific contexts to organize space.
resource
B2A stock or supply of money, materials, staff, and other assets that can be drawn on by a person or organization in order to function effectively. In academic and informational contexts, it refers to a source of information or expertise used to support research or learning.
to
A1Used to indicate the place, person, or thing that someone or something moves toward. It can also mark the recipient of an action or the limit of a range.
and
A1A primary conjunction used to connect words, phrases, or clauses that are grammatically equal. It indicates addition, a sequence of events, or a relationship between two things.
a
A1A word used before a singular noun that is not specific or is being mentioned for the first time. It is used only before words that begin with a consonant sound to indicate one of something.
that
A1This word is a demonstrative pronoun used to indicate a specific person, object, or idea that is further away in space or time from the speaker. It is also used to refer back to something that has already been mentioned or to introduce a clause that identifies something.
I
A1The pronoun 'I' is used by a speaker or writer to refer to themselves as the subject of a verb. It is the first-person singular subject pronoun in English and is always capitalized regardless of its position in a sentence.
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