break down
- act up (malfunction) v.
- anatomize v.
- choke up v.
- clarify v.
- classify v.
- come unglued v.
- crack v.
- crumple v.
- cry v.
- decipher v.
- decompose v.
- decompose v.
- destroy v.
- die v.
- disintegrate v.
- dismantle v.
- disorganize v.
- dissect v.
- dissolve v.
- divide v.
- explain v.
- fail v.
- fall v.
- fall apart v.
- founder v.
- fragmentize v.
- freak out v.
- inculcate v.
- indoctrinate v.
- miscarry v.
- misfire v.
- molder v.
- perish v.
- propagandize v.
- putrefy v.
- raze v.
- resolve v.
- rot v.
- simplify v.
- sob v.
- spell out v.
- spoil v.
- succumb v.
- taint v.
- turn v.
- weep v.
- wilt v.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Krystal Hur and Gregory Zuckerman unpack the historic move, and we break down five key things to know about Berkshire’s new chairman.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 19, 2026
In people with IBD, this protective barrier can break down, contributing to inflammation, pain, and long-term complications.
From Science Daily ● Sep. 17, 2026
A study published this year, external found that Europeans and South Americans tend to break down caffeine more quickly on average.
From BBC ● Sep. 17, 2026
“I try to break down the stereotypes and have a little fun with them and let them become a kid again.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 14, 2026
He just seems to me the type who’d layer on the Right Guard for days before he’d finally break down and take a shower.
From "Missing May" by Cynthia Rylant
![]()