Phrases & Expressions

To explode, or to destroy something with an explosion.

• Nobody was hurt when the old factory blew up last night.
• The gas tank blew up just after everyone had left the building.

To stop working because of a mechanical fault.

• The old washing machine broke down again.
• Our car broke down on the motorway.

To do something that is illegal.

• He broke the law and went to jail.
• It's wrong to break the law.

To end a romantic relationship.

• She broke up with her boyfriend.
• Tom broke up with Anna after five years together.

To take deep breaths.

• Breathe deeply to relax.
• He breathed deeply and calmed down.

To gradually increase in amount, size, or strength.

• Stress can build up if you never take a break.
• Traffic starts to build up around five o'clock.

Unintentionally.

• I deleted the file by accident.
• We met by accident at the airport.

To cancel an event or plan that was going to happen.

• They called off the meeting.
• The match was called off because of heavy rain.

To shout something, especially to get someone's attention.

• She called out his name across the crowded room.
• The nurse called out my name, and I went in.

To be unable to stop doing something or feeling an emotion.

• I can't help laughing.
• She can't help worrying.