Phrasal verb
break off
Meanings
To stop or end something suddenly (a conversation, activity, plan, or relationship).
To separate a piece from something larger, often accidentally or by force.
To stop doing something for a short time, especially to do something else.
Definition
To break off means to stop something suddenly or to separate a piece from something larger.
Break off is a phrasal verb most commonly used to talk about stopping an activity, conversation, or relationship before it naturally ends. It can also mean that a piece separates from something, often because of force or damage. The meaning is usually clear from the object and the context.
Examples
- I had to break off the call when my train went into a tunnel.
- You should break off the argument before it gets worse.
- He decided to break off the engagement after months of doubts.
- She watched a small piece break off the old clay pot in her hands.
- They break off their meeting for ten minutes to grab coffee.
Common mistake
Learners often forget the object or use the wrong preposition, saying "break from" instead of "break off" when they mean to end something suddenly.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.