breakdown

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'breakdown' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of something coming apart or ceasing to function, or the analysis of something to determine its component parts. For example, you can use the sentence "She experienced an emotional breakdown after her dog passed away" to describe a situation in which someone has an intense emotional reaction after a traumatic experience.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Sport

Books

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Male Conservative MPs voted against equal marriage in larger numbers proportionally than their female colleagues, according to a breakdown of the voting figures after the historic debate in parliament.

The Guardian

He also acknowledges that the SDLP has suffered from being stereotyped as the Stormont psychiatrist, trying to encourage unionists and republicans alike to analyse their problems as each new nervous breakdown hits the peace process, but sometimes missing out on a share of the glory when the crisis passes.

The Guardian

We also offered medication; social work support to help people deal with defaulted bills, missed rent and other such complications that so often accompany a serious mental breakdown; and an occupational therapy programme, including walking groups and art groups.

The Guardian

Here's the full breakdown of the cuts by country announced in the 2015 budget:.

The Guardian

Fadi Hakura, an expert on Turkey and associate fellow at Chatham House, said it was unlikely that such disputes would lead to a complete breakdown in relations between the two states.

The Guardian

The regional breakdown by KPMG shows that in the south-east a first-time buyer would need an annual wage of £46,010, against the actual average wage of £24,391.

The Guardian - Business

"We have let a lot of people down," he said and blamed the delays to the engineering works at King's Cross on equipment breakdown.

The Guardian - Business

Within the Coalition, the breakdown looks like this: Liberal party: 57 Liberal National party: 21 National party: 9 Country Liberals (NT): 1 Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 8.45am AEST23:45 Good morning.

The Guardian

"Instead of being a very passive person who had had a nervous breakdown, I saw I had something to give".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The rewards and punishments model shown in the report is an outmoded approach and there's nothing in there about properly dealing with the obvious issues of distress and breakdown in detention," she said.

The Guardian

"We haven't yet seen a big breakdown of the energy system due to security problems – a fault or an intrusion – and I think the first big incident will create much more awareness [of the issue]," says Kortuem.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "breakdown", consider the specific context to choose the most accurate synonym. For technical failures, "malfunction" may be better, while for mental health, "collapse" or "crisis" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "breakdown" as a catch-all term. Be specific. Instead of saying there was a "breakdown" in communication, specify whether it was a "misunderstanding", a "lack of clarity", or a "complete communications breakdown".

Linguistic Context

The word "breakdown" primarily functions as a noun, denoting a failure, collapse, or a detailed analysis. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in contexts ranging from mechanical failures to emotional states and financial analyses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

15%

Sport

10%

Less common in

Books

8%

Tech

7%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "breakdown" is a versatile noun with several meanings, including failure, collapse, and detailed analysis. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. As evidenced by numerous examples from authoritative sources like The Guardian and Financial Times, it's widely used in news, business, and technical contexts. When writing, consider the specific context to choose the most accurate synonym and avoid vagueness. By using precise language and understanding the nuances of "breakdown", you can communicate more effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Failure

A general term indicating lack of success or the cessation of proper functioning.

Malfunction

Specifically refers to a failure in the proper operation of something, especially a machine.

Collapse

Suggests a sudden loss of structure, function, or condition, often physically or mentally.

Analysis

Focuses on detailed examination for explanation or interpretation.

Decomposition

Implies the process of rotting or decay, or breaking down into simpler components.

Deterioration

Indicates a gradual decline in quality, condition, or vigor.

Disintegration

Suggests a complete loss of cohesion or unity.

Disruption

Indicates an interruption or disturbance of something, often causing disorder.

Deconstruction

Suggests dismantling or taking apart for reinterpretation or understanding.

Debacle

Refers to a sudden and ignominious failure; a fiasco.

FAQs

How can I use "breakdown" in a sentence?

You can use "breakdown" to describe a mechanical failure, like "The car suffered a "mechanical failure"". It can also refer to a mental or emotional collapse, or a detailed analysis, like "Here's a "detailed analysis" of the budget".

What are some alternatives to "breakdown" when referring to a failure?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "malfunction", "failure", "collapse", or "crash" to describe a system or process ceasing to function correctly.

Is it correct to use "breakdown" to describe a relationship ending?

While not the most common usage, "breakdown" can be used to describe the ending of a relationship, particularly when there has been a gradual deterioration. More common terms might be "break up" or "dissolution".

What's the difference between "breakdown" and "analysis"?

"Breakdown" can refer to an analysis, but it often implies a more structured and detailed categorization. "Analysis" is a broader term, while a "breakdown" specifically divides something into its component parts for closer examination.