Breaking - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Breaking means separating or causing something to separate into pieces, often suddenly or forcefully. It can also refer to interrupting continuity, such as breaking a habit or breaking news.
Definition:
Separating into pieces suddenly or violently, often causing damage or ending continuity.
Synonyms:
shattering, fracturing, splitting, cracking
Part of Speech:
noun, adjective, verb (present participle)
Antonyms:
repairing, fixing
Common Collocations:
breaking news, breaking point, breaking the law, breaking a record
Derivatives:
breakable, breaker, breakage
Usage Tips:
Use "breaking" for sudden physical separation or significant changes (e.g., "breaking news"). Avoid overuse in informal contexts.
Common Phrases:
breaking the ice, breaking even, breaking bad
Etymology:
From Old English "brecan," meaning to divide violently or shatter; related to Germanic roots like "brechen."
Examples:
- 1. The glass is breaking into tiny pieces.
- 2. She is breaking the rules by arriving late.
- 3. The storm caused widespread breaking of tree branches.
- 4. Breaking news: The president will speak tonight.