Crumble into Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To break apart into very small pieces, often used for physical objects or metaphorically for things like confidence, hope, or organizations falling apart.
Usage & Nuances
Often used in writing or speech to describe both literal breaking into crumbs and figurative collapse. Common with nouns like 'dust', 'pieces', 'ruins', or abstract things like 'crumble into chaos'. Usually informal; not typically used for people themselves, but for things or emotions they experience.
Example Sentences
The cookie crumbled into pieces when I picked it up.
basic
Over time, the old wall crumbled into dust.
basic
Their hope crumbled into nothing after hearing the news.
basic
My confidence crumbled into nervousness during the interview.
natural
The building shook and crumbled into ruins after the earthquake.
natural
Without leadership, the team crumbled into chaos.
natural