broke into groups

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broke into groups" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where a larger group divides into smaller subgroups for discussion, work, or activities. Example: "During the workshop, the participants broke into groups to brainstorm ideas for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Leaders broke into groups that mixed rich and poor, North and South, East and West, to thrash out ideas.

The New York Times

At a third, they broke into groups of four to discuss how they would respond to a hypothetical situation.

The New York Times

Snacking on doughnut holes, coffee and cider, those at the caucus broke into groups to support candidates.

The New York Times

Then employees broke into groups to discuss new techniques to improve the taste and texture of drinks.

The New York Times

Then they broke into groups, and the ambassadors gathered around Carrie Karabelas, director of special projects and events for NYC & Company, the city's tourism office.

The New York Times

It occasionally broke into groups or disbanded & entry to it was often denied to some Negroes by goons at the door.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Some students yawn or stare into space when they break into groups.

The New York Times

The meeting room included modular couches and armchairs as well as classroom-style tables, allowing participants to break into groups.

The New York Times

The volunteers were broken into groups, each of which watched a certain number of films while remaining ignorant of what the other groups were seeing.

The New York Times

After hearing the pitches, voters break into groups by ward, where they continue debating or simply start with a show of hands.

The New York Times

"In middle level, there aren't so many white kids, and whenever you break into groups, people stick with their own race".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broke into groups", ensure the context clearly indicates the purpose of the division, such as for discussion, activities, or task distribution. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "broke into groups" without specifying the intention behind the division. Provide context to clarify whether the groups are for collaboration, competition, or other purposes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broke into groups" functions as a verb phrase indicating an action of division or separation. Ludwig confirms this usage, showing examples where a larger entity is divided into smaller subgroups for specific purposes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "broke into groups" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe the act of dividing a larger assembly into smaller units. Ludwig AI confirms this, providing numerous examples from reputable sources such as The New York Times, Huffington Post, and Vice. The phrase is versatile, fitting comfortably in both formal and informal contexts, although alternatives like "divided into groups" might be preferred in more formal settings. Remember to clarify the purpose behind the group division to enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity when using the phrase "broke into groups".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divided into groups

Indicates a more formal and planned separation.

split into groups

Suggests a quicker, less organized separation.

separated into groups

Implies a physical distancing or segregation into distinct clusters.

formed smaller groups

Focuses on the creation of new, smaller entities.

subdivided into groups

Emphasizes a structured, hierarchical division.

clustered into subgroups

Highlights the formation of naturally occurring clusters.

organized into teams

Implies a structured division for collaborative work.

partitioned into sections

Suggests a division into clearly defined segments.

devolved into factions

Indicates a negative connotation of discord and separation.

scattered into segments

Focuses on a dispersed distribution into smaller parts.

FAQs

What does "broke into groups" mean?

The phrase "broke into groups" means to divide a larger assembly of people into smaller, separate units or clusters, typically for the purpose of discussion, activity, or task distribution.

What can I say instead of "broke into groups"?

You can use alternatives like "divided into groups", "split into groups", or "separated into groups" depending on the context.

Is "broke into groups" formal or informal?

"Broke into groups" is generally considered a neutral phrase, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "divided into groups" may be preferred in academic or professional settings.

How to use "broke into groups" in a sentence?

You can use "broke into groups" in a sentence like this: "During the workshop, the participants broke into groups to brainstorm ideas for the project."