Basic Details
Word: Breakdown
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A failure of a system or condition; a collapse or a sudden cessation of normal operations.
Synonyms: Collapse, failure, crash
Antonyms: Success, functioning, recovery
Idioms and Phrases
- Breakdown in communication: When people do not understand each other, which leads to misunderstandings. Example: "There was a breakdown in communication during the meeting, causing confusion among the team."
- Break down barriers: To overcome obstacles or difficulties that prevent understanding or progress. Example: "The workshop helped to break down barriers between the students from different backgrounds."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The breakdown of the car left us stranded on the side of the road.
Example 2: His emotional breakdown after the exam was unexpected, as he usually handled stress well.
Example 3: The software experienced a breakdown, causing all the computers in the office to freeze.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "breakdown" originated in the early 20th century, initially referring to vehicles that had ceased to operate? It later broadened to include mental and emotional conditions.
Famous Quote
"Sometimes, it takes a breakdown to break through." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "breakdown" mean?
a) A type of music
b) A failure of a system
c) A delicious food
d) A new kind of game
Answer: b) A failure of a system
2. Which of these is a synonym of "breakdown"?
a) Victory
b) Success
c) Crash
d) Growth
Answer: c) Crash
3. What is an antonym of "breakdown"?
a) Failure
b) Collapse
c) Recovery
d) Disaster
Answer: c) Recovery
4. Which sentence uses "breakdown" correctly?
a) The breakdown of the cake made everyone happy.
b) She had a breakdown while singing.
c) The breakdown of the car stopped us from getting home.
d) The breakdown in the classroom was very productive.
Answer: c) The breakdown of the car stopped us from getting home.
5. What does the idiom "breakdown in communication" mean?
a) People understand each other perfectly
b) People do not hear each other
c) People misunderstand each other
d) People are friends
Answer: c) People misunderstand each other
