break down divisions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "break down divisions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of eliminating barriers or differences between groups, organizations, or individuals. Example: "The initiative aims to break down divisions between different communities and foster a sense of unity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"I wanted to break down divisions between 'us versus them'," Shewry tells me, "the two distinct restaurant roles: front-of-house and kitchen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Campaigns stressing the importance of preventive measures and their implementation have served to create new social attitudes as well as to break down divisions between different categories of health workers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"And if we are to be a country which works for most people, we need to break down divisions in our school system with concerted, collaborative and co-ordinated action from the entire English educational landscape – including the private sector".

The Guardian

Although the architects intentionally avoid a set formula in their designs, Ms. Chai said their projects typically featured open floor plans and water elements, like pools and water flowing down walls, and they attempt to break down divisions between indoor and exterior spaces.

The New York Times

The interaction with walkers from different nations, as well as locals in each of the villages, she said, is also a way to break down divisions – not to mention the walkers' use of social media to share stories and images from the walk on a global level.

BBC

YaLa is more than a network of activists scattered across the region – it is a movement that empowers its members to break down divisions and redraw the map to form a shared community.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

People are coming together and breaking down divisions".

The Guardian

As with the Invictus Games that followed, the courage, determination and talent of the athletes captured our imagination as well as breaking down divisions.

Independent

But, as these cases show, there is a natural resistance to those who wish to break down division.

The Guardian

Programme director Louise Jeffreys said the Barbican represented the Bauhaus principles in breaking down divisions between art forms.

The Guardian - Arts

The vice-president is pushing for a two-pronged approach to defeating cancer: increasing resources to fight the disease; and breaking down divisions between drugmakers, insurers and doctors and "to work together, share information, and end cancer as we know it".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "break down divisions" to describe efforts to foster collaboration and understanding between groups, especially in contexts where differences have historically been a source of conflict or separation.

Common error

Avoid using "break down divisions" in situations where simpler terms like "simplify" or "organize" would be more appropriate. The phrase is most effective when addressing complex social, political, or organizational barriers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "break down divisions" functions primarily as a phrasal verb. It describes the action of reducing or eliminating separations between different groups or entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "break down divisions" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe the act of reducing or eliminating barriers between groups. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable expression. Predominantly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, the phrase serves to advocate for unity and understanding. While versatile, it's best used when addressing complex societal or organizational challenges, and should be favored to simpler terms when the context warrants it. Alternatives such as "bridge the divide" or "foster unity" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific message you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bridge the divide

This alternative focuses on connecting separate entities, emphasizing the act of building a link between them.

foster unity

This phrase highlights the positive outcome of creating a unified group from disparate parts.

eliminate barriers

This alternative emphasizes the removal of obstacles that prevent interaction or collaboration.

overcome differences

This phrase focuses on surpassing disagreements or distinctions to achieve a common goal.

reduce separation

This alternative highlights the act of lessening the distance or distinction between entities.

promote integration

This phrase suggests actively encouraging the merging or combining of different elements.

build consensus

This focuses on creating a shared agreement or understanding among different parties.

dismantle walls

This alternative uses a more metaphorical image of tearing down barriers.

dissolve boundaries

This phrase suggests a more complete removal of limits or borders.

harmonize relations

This alternative focuses on creating a more peaceful and cooperative interaction.

FAQs

How can I use "break down divisions" in a sentence?

You can use "break down divisions" to describe actions aimed at fostering unity and collaboration. For example: "The project aims to "break down divisions" between departments."

What can I say instead of "break down divisions"?

You can use alternatives like "bridge the divide", "foster unity", or "eliminate barriers" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "break down divisions" or "reduce separation"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, ""break down divisions"" often implies a more active and intentional effort to overcome existing barriers, whereas "reduce separation" might suggest a more gradual or passive process.

What's the difference between "break down divisions" and "build consensus"?

"Break down divisions" focuses on removing barriers and fostering understanding, while "build consensus" emphasizes reaching a shared agreement or decision. They are related but have distinct focuses.