to stop working
suddenly Cease to work or function of machine or vehicle
to go wrong
seize up
fail or collapse
burst into tears/dissolve into tears (break down in tears)
undergo chemical decomposition (break down into)
a mechanical failure
a failure of a relationship or system
divide something into parts
to separate something into simpler substances
the stoppage of a process
to be unable to control feelings and to start to cry
His car broke down.
The welfare organizations in the city of London tried to break down the problem for full analysis.
Pay negotiations with administration broke down.
the old woman broke down in tears
The young man broke down in tears.
Her health broke down under the strain of overburden.
Waste products that break down into low-level toxic materials.
The breakdowns could totally disrupt the production of the factory.
A breakdown in military discipline is a big concern.
Ruth had a breakdown following the death of her husband.
The breakdown of ammonia to nitrites.
He broke down since he heard the bad news.
There is no origin for this idiom
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definition
Common phrase that has a specific meaning.