“Breakdown” vs. “Break”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “breakdown” and “break”

  • A breakdown is typically unexpected and disruptive, while a break can be intentional or accidental.
  • A breakdown often implies a more severe or dramatic situation, while a break can be relatively minor.
  • Breakdowns usually involve systems or machines, while breaks are more commonly associated with physical objects or social rules.
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What is the definition of “breakdown” and “break”?

Breakdown
  • A breakdown is a sudden failure or malfunction of a machine, vehicle, or system.
  • It can also refer to a physical or mental collapse or decline.
  • In a more general sense, breakdown can refer to the disintegration or failure of something, such as a relationship or plan.
Break
  • To break means to separate into pieces or cause damage to something.
  • It can also refer to interrupting or stopping an action or event.
  • In a social context, breaking can mean violating a law or rule.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Break” is the more popular variant on the web.
Breakdown
475,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. After the breakdown of negotiations, the two sides walked away from each other.
  2. The breakdown of my car caused me to be late to my doctor's appointment.
  3. The football coach gave the team a breakdown of their opponent's plays.
More popular
Break
2,220,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. She had to break a window to get into her own house because she forgot her key.
  2. I need to take a break from work and go for a walk outside.
  3. My heart broke when I found out that my dog had died while I was away.
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