The spelling of the phrase "breaks down" appears straightforward, but its pronunciation can be tricky. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /breɪks daʊn/. The first syllable is spelled with the letter "a" but pronounced as "ay," while the second syllable has the letters "ow" but is pronounced as "ow" in "cow." The "s" sound at the end of "breaks" represents the third person singular present tense, while "down" is a single syllable with a diphthong vowel sound. Overall, "breaks down" has a unique and varied pronunciation.
Breaks down is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings and interpretations depending on the context in which it is used. Generally, it refers to a process or action where something deteriorates, fails, or ceases to function properly. It can be used in a literal sense, describing the physical disintegration or malfunctioning of machinery, vehicles, or any mechanical system. In this sense, it signifies the breakdown of the components that make up the system, resulting in its inability to operate as intended.
Moreover, breaks down can also be employed figuratively, denoting the analysis, dissection, or decomposition of complex information or ideas into simpler components or pieces. It implies the process of breaking down intricate concepts or problems into more manageable and understandable parts in order to comprehend them better or solve them methodically.
Furthermore, breaks down may also indicate emotional or psychological experiences. In this sense, it denotes the loss of control over one's emotions, mental stability, or composure. It relates to instances where individuals become overwhelmed, unable to effectively handle stress, resulting in emotional breakdowns or crises.
Overall, whether referring to the physical malfunctioning of objects, the analytical deconstruction of information, or the emotional unraveling of individuals, breaks down serves as a versatile expression to encompass a variety of situations where a breakdown occurs.
The word "breaks down" is a compound verb phrase consisting of the verb "break" and the preposition "down".
The verb "break" has Old English roots and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "brekanan". Over the centuries, it has evolved from the meaning "to separate into pieces" to also include other senses such as "to interrupt" or "to make ineffective".
The preposition "down" is derived from the Old English word "adūn", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "ni-duno". It originally meant "from a higher to a lower position" or "in a downward direction".
When combined, the phrase "breaks down" typically refers to the action of causing something to become non-functional, dismantling, analyzing, or explaining complex ideas or procedures in a simplified manner.