Break vs Brake
What’s the difference between them?
Break
Meaning:
To separate into pieces or parts, typically suddenly and forcefully.
Examples:
1. She accidentally dropped the fragile vase, causing it to break into numerous pieces on the floor.
2. The strong windstorm caused several tree branches to break and fall onto the road, blocking traffic.
3. It's essential to handle delicate items with care to avoid any accidental breakage.
Brake
Meaning:
To stop or slow down (vehicle, machine, etc.), usually by pressing a pedal or lever.
Examples:
1. The brakes screeched as the car came to a sudden stop.
2. I had to pump the brakes to slow the car down.
3. The brakes were badly worn and needed to be replaced.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Break
1. Rupture
2. Snap
3. Shatter
4. Divorce
5. Cut off ties
1. Mend
2. Repair
3. Assemble
4. Unite
5. Hold Together
Brake
1. Halt
2. Restrain
3. Slow down
4. Bring to a stop
5. Put on the brakes
1. Accelerate
2. Speed up
3. Go forward
4. Propel
5. Floor it
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Break", "Brake".
1. Remember that 'break' is usually used in reference to the act of separating something into pieces or parts.
2. Remember that 'brake' is usually used in reference to the act of stopping or slowing down.
3. Break: The cake was broken into tiny pieces.
4. Brake: Use the brake to stop the car.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When do we use the word 'break'?
The word 'break' is used to describe the act of separating something into pieces or parts, typically suddenly and forcefully. Common examples include breaking a window, breaking a promise, breaking a record, and breaking a branch off a tree.
When do we use the word 'brake'?
The word 'brake' is used to describe the act of stopping or slowing down a vehicle, machine, or other moving object, usually by pressing a pedal or lever. Common examples include pressing on the brake pedal to slow down in a car, pressing the brake lever to stop a bicycle, and pulling the brake lever to stop a train.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, these words have similar pronunciation, so you have pay attention to the context to use the correct word.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using these words is mixing up the two in conversation. Another common mistake is confusing 'brake,' which is used to slow down or stop a vehicle, with 'break,' which is used to separate something into pieces.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. She turned the handle sharply and the boat came to an abrupt __________.
2. I heard a loud __________ as the vase hit the floor.
3. Dont forget to __________ when you get to the corner.
4. He took a hammer and __________ the lock.
5. Please __________ the car before you park it.
6. I saw the glass __________ into tiny pieces.
1. She turned the handle sharply and the boat came to an abrupt break.
Explanation: The word Break is used to describe a sudden halt or stop, which fits the context of the sentence.
2. I heard a loud break as the vase hit the floor.
Explanation: Break is used to describe a loud sound, which fits the context of the sentence.
3. Dont forget to brake when you get to the corner.
Explanation: Brake is the verb form of the noun brake and refers to the act of slowing or stopping a vehicle, which fits the context of the sentence.
4. He took a hammer and broke the lock.
Explanation: Break is used to indicate the action of smashing or damaging an object, which fits the context of the sentence.
5. Please brake the car before you park it.
Explanation: Brake is the verb form of the noun brake and refers to the act of slowing or stopping a vehicle, which fits the context of the sentence.
6. I saw the glass broken into tiny pieces.
Explanation: Break is used to indicate the action of shattering an object into many pieces, which fits the context of the sentence.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.