BREAK To break up : * to separate, to end a relationship: They couldn't stand each other. They've just broken up. * to go on a school holiday : When do the schools break up in December? * that cannot be heard any more (voice when calling someone): Sorry, I can't hear you, you're breaking up! * breaking into pieces and in this way permanently break: She broke the vase with a baseball bat. To break down : * ( break down in tears) to suddenly start crying : She couldn't take it anymore so she broke down in tears. * to reduce to smaller parts in order to analyse: Susan has broken down her favourite doll to see what it is made of. * to stop working: Sorry I'm late. My car has broken down. * someone's resistance (to overcome it): Parents should know how to break down their child's barriers. To break in/into : * to walk into sb's house using force: They broke into his house. * to start...