"broken" vs "Broken down"

Question

"broken" vs "Broken down"

Both 'broken' and 'broken down' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Broken' is used to describe something that is damaged or not functioning properly, while 'broken down' is used to describe something that has stopped working or functioning. They are not directly comparable as they serve different purposes.

Last Updated: April 07, 2024

Use 'broken' to describe something that is damaged, not working, or not functioning properly. It can be used with objects, machines, relationships, etc.

Examples:

The vase fell off the table and broke into pieces.
My phone screen is broken.
Their friendship is broken beyond repair.
The company's policies are broken and need to be revised.
The bridge is broken and needs to be repaired.

Alternatives:

damaged
not working
malfunctioning
in disrepair
faulty

Use 'broken down' to describe something that has ceased to function or operate properly. It is often used with machines, vehicles, or systems.

Examples:

My car broke down on the highway.
The computer system broke down due to a power outage.
The old washing machine has broken down again.
The communication system broke down during the storm.
The elevator broke down, trapping people inside.

Alternatives:

stopped working
ceased to function
malfunctioned
failed
shut down

Answer 1

broken

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to describe something that is damaged or not functioning properly.

Answer 2

Broken down

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to describe something that has stopped working or functioning.