break off
The phrase "break off" can describe both physical detachment and abrupt cessation of activities or relationships.
Definition
B2General
To remove a piece from a whole by snapping or separating it.
Example
- She broke off a piece of the chocolate bar.
- A branch broke off the tree during the storm.
B2General
To stop or discontinue an action or conversation suddenly.
Example
- He broke off in the middle of his speech.
- They had to break off the meeting due to an emergency.
B2Relationships
To end a relationship or association abruptly.
Example
- She decided to break off their engagement.
- The company broke off negotiations with the supplier.
C1Billiards
(technical, sports)To play the first shot in a game of snooker, billiards, or pool.
Example
- He broke off with a powerful shot, scattering the balls across the table.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "break off":
broke offbreak withbreak upbreak awayleave offbeak offcall offfork offcrack offcut offhook offbite offsplit upgo offbreak downhack offcome offfall offbranch offhead offpart waysbreak ranksblow offbreak inthrow offpull offclear offchew offtear offjump offhop offrack offswitch offcome apartshut offtouch offchop offturn offtell offbreak outback offcall it quitsword breakdo offsaw offlook offfall apartget offclick offknock it offmake offbreak openwalk offfall awayend offstop offwire offsign offcast offgo their separate waysbang offbear offbreak breadpull awaydrop offgob offbreak coverpart companytake offtear awaykiss offstep offhang up