breakdown
noun
a breaking down, wearing out, or sudden loss of ability to function efficiently, as of a machine.
breakdowns
-
pluralof breakdown.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Drivers told AFP that a few weeks earlier, a batch of poor-quality petrol caused problems and breakdowns for hundreds of cars.
From Barron's ● Oct. 30, 2026
He noted breakdowns that could be solved with better adherence to the game plan and understanding of the opposing team’s personnel.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 28, 2026
"Between 80 and 85 percent of the water" supplied has to be pumped to get to these households, he said, adding that equipment breakdowns, leaks and drought have exacerbated the problem.
From Barron's ● Oct. 21, 2026
The company doesn’t typically provide segment breakdowns for preliminary results, but most analysts expect its semiconductor division to have driven strong quarterly earnings, offsetting weakness in home appliances, mobile devices and other nonchip businesses.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 7, 2026
They aren’t always as obvious and spectacular as other breakdowns in rapid cognition.
From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell
