Breakdown

Definition

Breakdown refers to a failure of a system, process, or function. It can also mean a sudden decline in physical or mental health, or the process of analyzing something into its constituent parts. The term is commonly used in both mechanical and psychological contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbreɪkˌdaʊn/
• Respelling: BRAYK-down

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbreɪkˌdaʊn/
• Respelling: BRAYK-down

The pronunciation of "breakdown" is consistent in both American and British English, with slight variations in accent.

Etymology

The word "breakdown" is derived from the combination of "break," meaning to separate into pieces or fail, and "down," indicating a negative state or direction. The term came into common use in the early 19th century to describe the failure of machinery and later expanded to other forms of failure, including emotional or mental collapse.

Derivatives

• Break down (verb)
• Breakdown structure (noun)
• Breakdown point (noun)
• Breakdown voltage (noun)
• Breakdown cover (noun)

Synonyms

• Failure
• Collapse
• Malfunction

Antonyms

• Success
• Function
• Stability

Usage

The term "breakdown" is widely used in various contexts to describe both mechanical and psychological failures. For example, "The car had a breakdown on the highway," or "After years of stress, he suffered a mental breakdown." It can also refer to the process of analyzing or itemizing components, such as in "The project manager provided a cost breakdown."

Related Terms

• Breakthrough: A significant or sudden advance or development.
• Malfunction: The failure of a system or machine to operate correctly.
• Analysis: The process of breaking down complex information into understandable parts.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A failure in machinery or systems: Refers to the malfunction or failure of mechanical or electronic systems.
  • Example: "The factory had to halt production due to a breakdown in one of the main machines."
• A mental or emotional collapse: Refers to a state of mental stress or health deterioration, often triggered by overwhelming situations.
  • Example: "She experienced a breakdown after months of work-related stress."
• An analysis or division into parts: Refers to breaking down information, expenses, or processes into detailed components.
  • Example: "The accountant provided a financial breakdown for the last quarter."