Break: meaning, definitions and examples

This can also mean to damage or destroy something.

• Be careful or you'll break that vase!
• He managed to break the world record.

This implies temporarily stopping an activity or process, often to resume it shortly.

• She pressed the pause button on the remote.
• Let's pause the discussion until everyone arrives.

Refers to a short period of relief or rest from something difficult or unpleasant, often used in more formal contexts.

• The vacation was a much-needed respite from work.
• After weeks of intense heat, the rain provided a welcome respite.

Commonly used in the context of performances, such as a play or concert, for a scheduled break.

• The play will continue after a 15-minute intermission.
• During the intermission, we got some snacks.

In a context where a pause or interruption is needed.

• Let's take a break for lunch
• He broke the silence with a joke

Used when something breaks into many small pieces suddenly and violently.

• The glass shattered when it hit the floor
• Her dreams were shattered after hearing the bad news

Describes breaking something forcefully and often implies destruction. Often has a negative connotation.

• He angrily smashed the vase
• The car smashed into the wall

When something develops a line or slight division without completely separating.

• The ice started to crack under his weight
• She noticed a crack in the window after the storm