SINCE 1828

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break off

verb

Definition of break off

intransitive verb

1 :to stop abruptly

break off in the middle of a sentence

2 :to become detached

branches that broke off in the storm

3 :to end a relationship

broke off with his business partner

transitive verb

1 :discontinue

break off diplomatic relations

2 :to remove by or as if by breaking

broke off a chunk of bread

See break off defined for kids

Examples of break off in a Sentence

the judge broke off court proceedings until after lunch
talks between the two sides broke off when one began making unreasonable demands

First Known Use of break off

14th century

break off Synonyms

Synonyms

break, stop, break up, can [slang], cease, cut off, cut out, desist (from), discontinue, drop, end, give over, halt, knock off, lay off, leave off, pack (up or in), quit, shut off

Antonyms

continue, hang on, persist

Related Words

complete, conclude, finish; close (down); deactivate; block, blockade, dam, delay, detain, hinder, hold, hold back, impede, kibosh, obstruct, stem; call, suspend; arrest, brake, check, clamp down, rein (in), squash, squelch, stamp, stanch (or staunch), stunt, suppress, turn back; pause, stay, suspend; abolish, abort, annul, demolish, destroy, dissolve, kill, ruin, scuttle, snuff

Near Antonyms

carry on, continue, follow through (with), keep up, run on; advance, proceed, progress; actuate, drive, impel, propel, stir

Learn More about break off

See words that rhyme with break off Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for break off Britannica English: Translation of break off for Arabic speakers

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Examples: break off in a Sentence