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"breakdown" vs "break down"

Both 'break down' and 'breakdown' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Break down' is a phrasal verb meaning to stop working, while 'breakdown' is a noun referring to a failure or collapse. The choice between them depends on whether you are using the verb or the noun form.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

breakdown

This is a correct noun used to describe a failure or collapse of something.

Use 'breakdown' when you want to refer to the process of something failing or collapsing. It is a noun that can be used to describe various types of failures.

Examples:

  • The breakdown of the negotiations led to a stalemate.
  • The breakdown of the machine was caused by a loose wire.
  • She had an emotional breakdown after the loss of her pet.

Alternatives:

  • failure
  • collapse
  • malfunction
  • disintegration
  • crash

break down

This is a correct phrasal verb used to describe something stopping working or functioning.

Use 'break down' when you want to describe something that has stopped working or functioning properly. It is a phrasal verb that can be used in various contexts.

Examples:

  • My car broke down on the way to work.
  • The computer system broke down due to a power surge.
  • She tends to break down when under a lot of stress.

Alternatives:

  • stop working
  • malfunction
  • cease to function
  • fall apart
  • crash

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