What does the phrasal verb “Break Down” mean?
Break down is a phrasal verb with several meanings, but for this one-point lesson, break down means to stop functioning or to fail to work as expected. So, if someone says “My car broke down on the way to work”, they mean that their car stopped working properly and wouldn’t continue to run.
Here are some example sentences using break down with this meaning:
- I was late for my meeting because my train broke down on the tracks and had to wait for another one.
- I was so frustrated when my computer broke down in the middle of an important project.
- I had to call a repairman because my washing machine broke down and wouldn’t spin the clothes anymore.
Can you think of any other example sentences using break down?
Keep in mind the best way to remember this or any vocabulary in English is to take the word or phrase write it in a sentence that’s true for you or true in your world and then memorize your sentences.
You can even take your sentences and write them in the comments below. I would love to see your examples. And if you really want help with vocabulary, sign up for my free vocabulary workshop (see below).
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