breakdown
word
Definition
A breakdown is a situation where something stops working properly, such as a machine or a relationship. It can also mean a mental collapse from stress, or a detailed division of information into parts.
Usage & Nuances
Common with machines: 'car breakdown' and with systems or communication: 'a breakdown in talks/communication'. For emotional meaning, 'have a breakdown' usually suggests a serious loss of mental or emotional control. In business or reports, 'a breakdown of costs/data' means an organized division into categories.
Example Sentences
Our car had a breakdown on the highway.
basic
The teacher gave us a breakdown of the test results.
basic
After months of stress, he had a breakdown.
basic
There was a breakdown in communication between the two teams.
natural
Can you send me a breakdown of the monthly expenses?
natural
She was so overwhelmed that she nearly had a breakdown at work.
natural