break off

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   To remove a piece from a whole by breaking or snapping.

   • She unwrapped the slab of chocolate and broke off a piece.
   • The bees came and found no one but the Woodman to sting, so they flew at him and broke off all their stings against the tin, without hurting the Woodman at all.
2. 2

   To become detached by breaking or snapping.

   • A chunk of rock broke off from the cliff face.
3. 3

   To discontinue abruptly.

   • Both families want the lovers to break off any relationship they may have.
   • When the yacht had passed the man resumed the conversation that her appearance had broken off.
   • In fact I never said it; she eventually realised I was someone else, and broke off the conversation abruptly.
4. ›+ 3 more definitionsshow fewer

   1. 4

      To end abruptly, either temporarily or permanently.

      • Our school doesn't break off until July.
      • Then the conversation broke off, and there was little more talking, only a noise of men going backwards and forwards, and of putting down of kegs and the hollow gurgle of good liquor being poured from breakers into the casks.
   2. 5

      To play the first shot in a frame of snooker, billiards or pool.

      • Ted's opening line, when Steve broke off for the deciding frame, was, 'Last night we put our clocks back one hour. These two stars turned theirs back to April.'
   3. 6

      To give (someone) (something)

      To give (someone) (something); to allow (someone) to take (something); to grant (someone) a share or portion of (something).

      • If you help, I'll break you off a piece of the proceeds.

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