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breakdown

Pronunciation: [ˈbreɪkˌdaʊn]

Word

Learn how to use breakdown in a sentence: 15 audio examples across 5 meanings.

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?

How to pronounce breakdown

Pronunciation: [ˈbreɪkˌdaʊn]

Listen and repeat as many times as you need.

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