broke off

VERB

snap off something

Synonyms

STRONGEST

sever

WEAK

detach disassemble divide part pull off separate splinter take apart

Antonyms

WEAK

begin combine join mend start

VERB

end activity

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cease discontinue halt suspend terminate

WEAK

desist end finish pause stop

Antonyms

STRONGEST

begin carry on continue go initiate start

WEAK

combine join mend

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.

Thus cracked open the ongoing bilateral fracture, though Mexico City and Madrid never broke off formal diplomatic ties.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2026

The show inspired optimism, yes, but it certainly didn’t turn the dial so decisively toward radical hope that the knob broke off.

From Salon • Mar. 16, 2026

During earlier warm periods, when more ice broke off from West Antarctica and drifted northward, the iron entering the ocean was often in this poorly soluble form.

From Science Daily • Feb. 4, 2026

Ms Rees had been hiking on the island with fellow passengers, but broke off from the group for a rest.

From BBC • Dec. 27, 2025

“Gum Baby should’ve been there, should’ve been protecting her. Bunny can’t fight, she knows she can’t fight. Why’d she think—?” She broke off, crossing her arms and shaking her head.

From "Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky" by Kwame Mbalia