"the car break down" vs "the train broke down"

Question

"the car break down" vs "the train broke down"

These two phrases are not directly comparable because they refer to different modes of transportation. "The train broke down" is correct when talking about a train experiencing mechanical failure, while "the car break down" is incorrect because it should be "the car broke down."

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

The correct phrase to use is "the car broke down" when referring to a car experiencing mechanical failure. The verb "broke" should be in the past tense to match the subject.

Alternatives:

The car broke down on the highway.
I had to call a tow truck when the car broke down.
When the car broke down, I had to get it repaired at the mechanic.
We were stranded on the road after the car broke down.
The car broke down in the middle of nowhere.

This phrase is used when a train stops working due to a mechanical issue or failure. It indicates that the train is no longer operational.

Examples:

The train broke down on the tracks, causing delays for all passengers.
I was late to work because the train broke down this morning.
When the train broke down, the conductor informed us of the situation.
Passengers were asked to disembark after the train broke down unexpectedly.
The repair crew was called in to fix the train that broke down during rush hour.

Answer 1

the car break down

This phrase is incorrect in English. The correct form should be "the car broke down."

Answer 2

the train broke down

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to describe a train experiencing mechanical failure.

"the car break down" vs "the train broke down"

the car break down

the train broke down

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