breakdown
Pronunciation: [ˈbreɪkˌdaʊn]
Context: "emotional state"
(noun) when someone can't handle their feelings anymore and feels very sad or upset. It's like when a balloon pops because it’s too full, and the person feels overwhelmed.
Example
After talking with her friend, she felt better and avoided a breakdown.
Example
He didn't want to have a breakdown, so he kept his feelings to himself.
Example
Do you think talking about your feelings can help prevent a breakdown?
Context: "mechanical failure"
(noun) when a machine stops working properly. It’s like when your toy stops moving because the batteries are dead.
Example
The car had a breakdown on the way to the beach, but they called for help.
Example
Luckily, her bike didn’t have a breakdown during the trip.
Example
What should you do if you experience a breakdown in your car?
Context: "analysis"
(noun) when you take something complicated and divide it into smaller parts to understand it better. It’s like when you cut a big cake into slices to share with your friends.
Example
The teacher provided a breakdown of the project requirements to make it easier to understand.
Example
Without a breakdown of the instructions, I felt confused about what to do.
Example
Can you give a breakdown of your favorite book's main themes?
Context: "emotional state"
(verb) to start feeling very sad or unable to control your emotions. It’s like when you feel so upset that you just can’t stop crying.
Example
She broke down and cried when she heard the sad news.
Example
He managed to keep his composure and did not break down during the conversation.
Example
Have you ever seen someone break down during a stressful moment?
Context: "mechanical failure"
(verb) to stop functioning properly. It’s similar to when a toy stops playing music because something is wrong inside.
Example
The team was worried the engine would break down before the race finished.
Example
Fortunately, the computer didn't break down during the important presentation.
Example
What do you usually do when your bike breaks down?