Synonyms for

Breakdown

Verb / ˈbreɪˌkdaʊn / Another word for breakdown — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A failure of a machine, system, or relationship.

Synonyms & similar words

crackup partitioning equipmentfailure dislocation failure collapse crash malfunction disruption stoppage halt stall break-up dissolution separation split division crisis meltdown depression burnout

Synonyms by register

Formal

analysis disintegration failure malfunction

Informal

crash fizzle bust collapse

Literary

demise undoing rupture

Antonyms

success completion functioning operation construction assembly unity

Common collocations

  • mental breakdown
  • nervous breakdown
  • nervous breakdown
  • system breakdown
  • emotional breakdown
  • complete breakdown
  • traffic breakdown
  • communication breakdown

Word family

noun breakdown
verb break down

Usage note

While 'breakdown' can refer to a mechanical failure, it is most commonly used to describe a collapse of mental or emotional health. Be mindful of the context to avoid misinterpretation.

Example sentences

  1. The breakdown of the computer system caused chaos in the office.
  2. The breakdown of their marriage led to a messy divorce.
  3. The breakdown of the negotiations meant that the two sides could not reach an agreement.
  4. The breakdown of the power supply caused a blackout in the city.
  5. The breakdown of the relationship between the two countries led to a war.

Quotes

  • Every time you have a breakdown, it's an opportunity to become someone better.
  • A breakdown is a breakthrough if you make it so.
  • Sometimes the breakdown can be the beginning of a kind of breakthrough, a way of living in advance through a trauma that prepares you for a future of radical transformation.

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