break
down
Plural
breakdowns
1
a situation in which something fails to work properly, especially because of a mechanical failure
A breakdown refers to a situation where a vehicle, machine, or equipment stops working due to a mechanical failure or malfunction. It can occur unexpectedly, causing delays or disruptions in travel or operations. When a breakdown occurs, the vehicle or machine may need repairs or assistance to get back to working condition. The purpose of identifying a breakdown is to address the cause of the failure and ensure that the vehicle or equipment is repaired and operational again as quickly as possible.
- The car had a breakdown on the highway, causing traffic delays.
- A sudden breakdown in the elevator left passengers stranded.
- The factory halted production due to a machinery breakdown.
- He called for roadside assistance after experiencing an engine breakdown.
- Frequent breakdowns in the power grid led to widespread blackouts.
Synonyms:
2
a failure in the progress or effectiveness of a relationship or system
- The communication breakdown led to the project's failure.
- The company experienced a breakdown in its supply chain, leading to a shortage of products.
- Many factors contributed to the breakdown of the company's finances.
- The breakdown of negotiations between the two countries escalated tensions in the region.
- As a result of the breakdown, the group disbanded and stopped collaborating.
Synonyms:
3
a condition in which a person becomes so anxious or depressed that they can no longer handle their everyday life
Breakdown describes a severe decline in mental health characterized by an inability to function normally. It can involve intense emotional distress, difficulty thinking clearly, and problems in daily functioning. Symptoms may include overwhelming sadness, anxiety, confusion, or feeling lost. In some cases, breakdowns may show up as episodes with hallucinations or delusions. Treatment typically involves immediate help, like hospitalization or focused therapy, to support the person and address underlying mental health issues.
- After months of stress at work, he experienced a nervous breakdown and had to take a leave of absence.
- The pressures of caregiving for her ailing parents caused her to have a mental breakdown.
- The financial strain of mounting debts led to a psychological breakdown for the family.
- She sought therapy to recover from a breakdown triggered by a traumatic event in her childhood.
- The intense academic pressure during finals week caused several students to suffer breakdowns.
Synonyms:
4
a systematic analysis that divides a whole into separate parts for clarity or measurement
- The accountant gave a breakdown of expenses by department for the quarter.
- Before the meeting she prepared a breakdown of time needed for each agenda item.
- The report's breakdown of voter demographics helped target the campaign messaging.
- We need a clear breakdown of costs to decide which projects to fund.
- The teacher asked for a breakdown of the steps you took to solve the problem.
Synonyms:
5
the process by which organic matter is decomposed, often by bacterial, fungal, or enzymatic action
- The breakdown of leaf litter by fungi returns nutrients to the soil each autumn.
- Scientists measured the breakdown rate of the biodegradable polymer under composting conditions.
- Proper aeration speeds the breakdown of organic waste in a home composter.
- The breakdown of muscle tissue after injury triggers an inflammatory response.
- Soil microbes drive the breakdown of agricultural residues into humus.
Synonyms:
6
a lively, energetic solo or group dance featuring intricate footwork and rhythmic accenting, associated with old-time, flatfooting, clogging, buckdancing, or other Southern Appalachian step‑dance traditions
Breakdown is a style of dance that evolved from hip hop and is characterized by its energetic and rhythmic movements. It features a combination of quick footwork, sharp body isolations, and dynamic, often acrobatic moves. Dancers perform with emphasis on the beat of the music, incorporating elements like spins, slides, and precise steps. This style is known for its creativity and complexity, reflecting a high level of skill and individual expression.
- The fiddler cued the breakdown and the dancers answered with rapid, intricate steps.
- At the festival she performed a solo breakdown that drew loud applause from the crowd.
- The band sped up for a breakdown that had everyone stomping and clapping along.
- Learning traditional footwork is essential before attempting a fast breakdown.
- The caller announced a breakdown, and the floors filled with flatfooters showing off their best moves.