Break down Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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break down

[ˈbreɪk daʊn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in construction

To dismantle or demolish a structure into smaller parts or components.

Synonyms

demolish, disassemble, dismantle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
break down	Same phrase as above, but used differently to describe a process of analyzing something by separating it into parts to understand it better. Let me break down the process for you. The data needs to be broken down into smaller, more discrete categories.
dismantle	This term is used similarly to 'disassemble,' but it often carries a meaning of taking something apart permanently or for a larger structure, system, or organization. The workers started to dismantle the stage after the event. They decided to dismantle the old machine because it was beyond repair.
disassemble	This word is typically used when talking about taking something apart into its individual pieces, like machinery, devices, or furniture, usually with the intention of putting it back together later. We need to disassemble the furniture to move it up the stairs. He carefully disassembled the old clock to clean it.
demolish	This word is mainly used in the context of completely destroying buildings or structures. It can also be used metaphorically with a negative connotation. They plan to demolish that old factory next week. Her argument was so strong that it completely demolished his points.

Examples of usage

The workers were hired to break down the old building and clear the site for the new construction.
The team had to break down the scaffolding after completing the project.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in analysis

To separate something into smaller parts to understand or analyze it.

Synonyms

analyze, decompose, dissect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
break down	Use when discussing the division or separation of something into smaller parts, or when a mechanical failure occurs. The teacher broke down the complex topic into simpler terms The car broke down on the way to the concert
analyze	Best for careful examination of data, literature, or a situation to understand it better or draw conclusions. Scientists analyze the data from the experiment She analyzed the market trends to predict future sales
decompose	Primarily used in a scientific or biological context to describe something breaking down chemically or organically over time. Organic matter begins to decompose after being exposed to bacteria The plastic bag took years to decompose in the landfill
dissect	Common in scientific, medical, or educational settings where a detailed examination or separation of components is required. In biology class, we dissected a frog to learn about its anatomy She dissected the argument piece by piece

Examples of usage

The professor asked the students to break down the complex theory into simpler concepts.
We need to break down the data to identify any patterns or trends.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

In psychology, 'breaking down' can refer to emotional distress, where someone feels overwhelmed and unable to cope.
The breakdown of emotional barriers can lead to catharsis, a release of pent-up emotions.

Pop Culture

Songs often use the phrase to describe relationships falling apart, like in popular hits that discuss heartbreak.
In movies, characters frequently face dramatic breakdowns when their plans go wrong, highlighting moments of crisis.

Science

In biology, 'breakdown' refers to processes like decomposition, where organic matter breaks down into simpler substances.
Chemically, a breakdown can also describe reactions where compounds disassemble into smaller molecules.

Education

'Break down' is commonly used in classrooms to encourage students to dissect complicated ideas into simpler, understandable parts.
Teachers often ask students to 'break down' problems in math, promoting step-by-step solutions for better comprehension.

Origin of 'break down'

Main points about word origin

The phrase derives from 'break,' meaning to separate into pieces, and 'down,' which implies a direction or state.
Its usage can be traced back to the late 19th century, initially used in mechanical contexts before expanding to emotional and analytical uses.

The term 'break down' originated in the 17th century, derived from the combination of 'break' and 'down', which individually mean 'to separate into parts' and 'toward a lower position or level' respectively. Over time, the expression has evolved to encompass various meanings related to dismantling, analyzing, or decomposing things into smaller units for different purposes.