Break down
1. to divide the total number into different groups
2. cause to collapse by using force
3. to collapse, stop to function properly
Could you break the number down into age-groups?
I had to break down the door to get into the burning building.
After working very hard his health broke down and he had to retire.
Our car broke down when we were driving to London on our holidays.
The negotiations broke down because neither side would make concessions.
Break in
1. to enter by force
2. to interrupt someone
Thieves broke in and stole a valuable vase.
I was telling him about my adventure when he suddenly broke in with a story of his own.
Break off
1. to detach or become detached
2. to terminate
3. to stop talking
A piece of rock broke off and fell on my head.
I took a bar of chocolate and broke off a piece.
She has broken off her engagement to Chris.
They were quarrelling but broke off when someone came into the room.
Break out
1. to begin (used of wars, fires, epidemics etc.)
2. to escape from prison
The war broke out on 4 August.
Two dangerous criminals broke out of prison last night.
Break up
1. to termiante
The meeting broke up in confusion.
The school broke up on 25 June and the children went on holidays.
