# break down

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/break-down
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to stop working because of a mechanical problem. You can also use this when someone gets very upset and starts to cry.

For teachers: to cease functioning due to mechanical failure; the verb is intransitive in this sense. It also refers to a sudden loss of emotional composure or the failure of a formal process.

## Examples

- Our washing machine broke down yesterday.
- After driving for five hours, the engine began to smoke and the car finally broke down on a quiet country road.
- The diplomatic talks broke down late last night as neither side was willing to concede on the fundamental issue of territorial sovereignty.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The car was broken down." but "The car broke down." — This phrasal verb is intransitive and should not be used in the passive voice to describe a mechanical failure.

## Usage notes

- This phrase is intransitive when it means a machine stops working or a person starts crying.
- Teaching tip: Contrast this intransitive use with the transitive sense of 'breaking down' a complex problem into smaller parts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.