collapse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "collapse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as describing the failure of a structure, system, or plan. Example: "The old building began to collapse under the weight of the heavy snow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"International unity will collapse and the path to conflict will widen".

The Guardian

The DUP leader's ultimatum followed the collapse of the trial of John Downey, suspected of involvement in the 1982 Hyde Park bombing which killed four soldiers.

The Guardian

But two months after the anniversary of the Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh, when most of those injured and bereaved by the disaster are still waiting for compensation – though Primark, unlike other retailers who have admitted to a presence in the factory, has contributed to the compensation fund – the secret message hidden inside a piece of women's clothing is a startling image.

The Guardian - Opinion

The original buildings, constructed from dung and straw, tended to collapse whenever hit by one of the country's frequent earth tremors.

The Guardian - Travel

Now, after the collapse of communism, the Christian-conservative government paints as its main enemy the multicultural consumerist liberal democracy for which today's western Europe stands.

The Guardian

But there has to be one, because although most squatters just need somewhere to live and often maintain mouldering, neglected buildings and save them from terminal collapse and vandalism, what about the few really naughty squatters, who make a mess and noise, pretend to be artists and pinch your home while you're on hols or in hospital?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Smyth scandal and the disclosure that the authorities were complicit in the cover-up led to the collapse of the Fianna Fáil-Labour government, which at the time was basking in the glow of helping to secure the IRA's 1994 ceasefire.

The Guardian

After 100 days of talks and just two days before Christmas, Sinn Féin, the DUP, the Ulster Unionists and the SDLP reached an agreement at Stormont that saved devolved government in Belfast from collapse.

The Guardian

The code has been in production for the better part of a month now and helped dramatically collapse the code size and complexity in a way that I feel will be simple to maintain.

The Guardian

Some scientists say the major west Antarctic ice sheet has already started a long term collapse that could change eventually change the world's coastline.

The Guardian

When structural engineers moved in to study the damage, their verdict was that the entire window was in danger of collapse.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about the failure of a system or organization, consider using "collapse" to convey a sense of sudden and complete breakdown. Be mindful of the context to ensure it accurately reflects the severity of the situation.

Common error

While "collapse" is suitable for formal and news contexts, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "fall apart" or "break down" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The word "collapse" primarily functions as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it describes the action of falling down suddenly or ceasing to function. As a noun, it refers to the act of collapsing itself. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts ranging from physical structures to political systems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

7%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "collapse" is a versatile term used to describe a sudden failure or breakdown, functioning as both a verb and a noun. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and formal settings. While alternatives like "fall apart" or "break down" exist, "collapse" carries a more formal and often severe connotation. When writing, consider the context to ensure its appropriate use, avoiding overuse in casual settings. Understanding its function, purpose, and register can greatly enhance your writing clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fall apart

Focuses on the disintegration of something into pieces.

give way

Implies a yielding under pressure or strain.

cave in

Specifically refers to an inward collapse, often of a structure.

break down

Describes a failure of a system, machine, or relationship.

crumble

Suggests a gradual deterioration leading to collapse.

implode

Indicates a violent, inward collapse.

succumb

Implies yielding to pressure or a destructive force.

founder

Describes the failure of an organization or plan.

go under

Informal term for failing or going bankrupt.

lose it

Informal term for emotional collapse or loss of control.

FAQs

How can I use "collapse" in a sentence?

You can use "collapse" to describe a structure failing (The building began to collapse), a system breaking down (The economy might collapse), or a person fainting (The heat made him collapse).

What can I say instead of "collapse"?

You can use alternatives like "fall apart", "give way", or "break down" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "collapse" or "collapsed"?

"Collapse" is the base verb form, while "collapsed" is the past tense and past participle. Use "collapsed" when describing something that has already fallen or failed.

What's the difference between "collapse" and "crumble"?

"Collapse" often implies a sudden and complete failure, while "crumble" suggests a gradual deterioration. For example, a building might collapse, but a relationship might crumble.