come apart
Definition
Verb (intransitive) To separate into pieces or fragments; to disintegrate or break. This describes the process where something that was whole or assembled loses its structural integrity and separates into its component parts.
Usage
The verb "come apart" is used to describe a physical failure or separation. It often implies an unintended or undesirable result. It is an intransitive phrasal verb, meaning it does not take a direct object (the thing that is separating is the subject of the sentence).
Examples
- The old book came apart in my hands when I tried to pick it up.
- If you don't glue it properly, the model airplane will come apart during flight.
- Her composure finally came apart after hearing the stressful news.
- The stitching on the bag is weak, and the seam is starting to come apart.
Advanced Usage
- "come apart at the seams": An idiom meaning to fall into a state of failure or collapse, either physically or figuratively.
- After the scandal, the company's reputation came apart at the seams.
- This old jacket is literally coming apart at the seams.
Variants and Related Words
- Fall apart: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "come apart."
- Disintegrate: To break into many small parts or pieces, often implying a more complete breakdown.
- Break up: To separate into parts, often used for groups, relationships, or materials that fragment.
Synonyms
Break, separate, split, fragment, disintegrate, fall to pieces.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Take apart (transitive): To deliberately disassemble something.
- He took apart the engine to clean it. (This is a deliberate action on an object.)
- Come apart (intransitive): To separate or break on its own.
- The engine came apart while driving. (This happens to the subject itself.)
Related Idioms
- Come unglued/stuck: Similar to "come apart," meaning to fail or lose control.
- He came unglued when he saw the final score.
- Fall to bits/pieces: Synonymous with "come apart."
Verb
-
become separated into pieces or fragments
-
The figurine broke
-
The freshly baked loaf fell apart
-
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
Từ gần giống
