break down

(verb) to stop working properly, to stop working.

Example Sentence:

I need to buy a new washing machine. I’m afraid mine is going to break down soon.

A: Why are you late?
B: I’m sorry Boss. My car broke down on the way to work. I had to get it fixed.

My mother couldn’t cook Thanksgiving dinner because our oven broke down. We had to order pizza instead.

Tommy’s family is saving for a new air conditioner because theirs always breaks down.

Media:

Similar idioms:

1. up in the air
2. look something up
3. walking on air