break off
SeparableThe object can go before or after the particle — but a pronoun MUST go in the middle: “clean it up”, never “clean up it”.
How to say it
Stress the particle, not the verb: break OFF. Saying “BREAK off” is the clearest learner tell — the verb stays light and the particle carries the beat.
Link across the gap. The final /k/ of “break” moves onto the particle and starts its syllable: “break off” is said “brea-koff”. Pausing between the words is what makes phrasal verbs sound recited rather than spoken.
2 meanings
- 1
To end something abruptly.
- “The two countries broke off diplomatic relations.”
- “They broke off the engagement a month before the wedding.”
Similar: terminate, sever
- 2
To separate a piece from a whole.
- “He broke off a piece of chocolate and handed it to me.”
- “The handle broke off in my hand.”
Similar: snap off