All Definitions for Breakdown
Below are all the dictionary definitions of breakdown:
1A failure, particularly one which is mechanical in nature.
2Something, such as a vehicle, that has experienced a mechanical failure.
3Separation of a thing into components
4Decomposition, fragmentation
5(countable) an instance of this.
6Detailed categorization, or itemization or listing, of the components of a thing
7(countable) an instance of this.
8(uncountable) (Sudden) worsening of physical health or (more commonly) mental stability, resulting in an inability to carry on normal activities
9(countable) an instance of this.
10(countable) A failure in a relationship
11A failure or loss of organization in a system.
12The sudden (and usually damaging) transition of an electrical insulator to a conductor when subjected to a sufficiently strong voltage, caused by the partial or complete ionization of the insulator
13(countable) an instance of this
14Also, the minimum voltage at which this occurs.
15Breaking of chemical bonds within a compound to produce simpler compounds or elements
16(countable) an instance of this.
17A detailed description of a forthcoming project or screenplay which identifies all the required elements, such as the cast, costumes, equipment, props, and special effects.
18(rugby union, countable and uncountable with the) The short period of open play immediately after a tackle and before and during the ensuing ruck.
19A part of a piece of music or a song which differs from the other parts in that it features improvisation or is stripped down (for example, played by fewer instruments or a solo performer).
20Synonym of percussion break (“a percussion-focused segment of a song, chosen by a hip-hop DJ to manipulate through cutting, mixing, and other techniques in order to create rhythmic music”).
21A section of a song, typical in hardcore music and related styles (such as metalcore, grindcore, and deathcore), characterized by a lower tempo and greater heaviness and intensity of sound.
22(veterinary medicine, uncountable) Injury to a horse's leg causing lameness
23(countable) an instance of this.
24A noisy, rapid, shuffling dance engaged in competitively by a number of individuals or pairs in succession, common among African-Americans from the Southern United States
25Also, a lively event, chiefly in a rural setting, at which such dancing is done
26A hoedown, a shindig.
27A piece of music played for such a dance, especially a rapid bluegrass tune featuring a five-string banjo.
28(originally and chiefly New Zealand, countable, chiefly attributive) An act of splitting logs of wood using a large saw in a sawmill
29Also, the saw used
30Or (rare) the building in which the process is carried out.
31An act of a structure or other thing breaking and collapsing.
About synonyms for breakdown
Finding the right synonym for breakdown helps writers avoid repetition and add precision to their work. Defined as "A failure, particularly one which is mechanical in nature.", breakdown has 1 alternatives that can fit different contexts and tones.
Each synonym carries a slightly different shade of meaning. Partitioning is the most direct replacement in most situations.
When choosing a synonym, consider the connotation, formality level, and audience. Some alternatives work better in casual conversation while others shine in academic or professional writing. For example, using a more formal synonym in a business email can elevate your tone, while a casual synonym might feel more natural in creative writing or dialogue.
It is also worth noting that not all synonyms are perfectly interchangeable. The context of your sentence, the surrounding words, and the intended emotional impact all play a role in selecting the best alternative. The list above provides the most common and useful replacements for breakdown, but always read your sentence aloud to ensure the chosen word flows naturally.