the train broke down vs the car broke down

These two phrases are comparable as they both involve the concept of a vehicle breaking down. However, the correct phrase to use depends on the type of vehicle being referred to. 'The train broke down' is correct when talking about a train malfunctioning, while 'the car broke down' is correct when referring to a car experiencing mechanical failure.

Last updated: March 15, 2024 • 880 views

the train broke down

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a train experiencing mechanical failure.

Use this phrase when talking about a train that has stopped working due to a mechanical issue or malfunction.

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.
The repair crew was called in to fix the train that broke down during rush hour.
Passengers were stranded when the train broke down in the middle of the journey.
The announcement informed us that the train broke down and we would need to wait for the next one.

Show examples from the web [+]

Apr 7, 2015 ... ... were canceled. Buses were providing service between Concord and Lincoln. The train broke down on the Fitchburg/South Acton line.
Jan 6, 2014 ... Rosa says the train broke down outside of Niles, and that passengers were told another train would be by to help get them to their destination.
Jun 21, 2015 ... The train broke down at the Berlin station. It is unclear what caused the delay and power loss before the train continued to Hartford. 41.621488 - ...
Jul 7, 2014 ... The train broke down in the north tunnel, which runs trains from the UK to France. Passengers were taken off the train via a service tunnel and ...

Alternatives:

The train experienced a breakdown.
The train had a mechanical failure.
The train stopped working.
The train malfunctioned.
The train had engine trouble.

the car broke down

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a car experiencing mechanical failure.

Use this phrase when talking about a car that has stopped working due to a mechanical issue or malfunction.

Examples:

We were stranded on the highway when the car broke down.
I need to call a tow truck because the car broke down in the middle of the road.
The mechanic fixed the car that broke down unexpectedly.
The car broke down due to a problem with the engine.
She missed the meeting because her car broke down on the way.

Show examples from the web [+]

And when the car broke down they started walking. Where were they going without ever. Knowing the way? [Chorus:] Anyone can see the road that they walk on
Apr 26, 2009 ... MTV Artist of the Week Spot - 05 - The Car Broke Down - Duration: 0:35. by XangelikaXhfX 2,590 views. 0:35. Panic! At The Disco: Miss ...
Oct 1, 2010 ... The Car Broke Down Cus Of A Cop. Subscribe!!! SubscribeSubscribed Unsubscribe 14. Loading... Loading... Working... Add to ...
Hi, Can I say 'The car broke last week' instead of 'The car broke down last week.' Can I say 'The car is out of order' instead of 'The car is broke down'? Is there ...

Alternatives:

The car experienced a breakdown.
The car had a mechanical failure.
The car stopped working.
The car malfunctioned.
The car had engine trouble.

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the train broke down vs the car broke down