break off
verb
broke off; broken off; breaking off; breaks off
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
1
: discontinue
break off diplomatic relations
2
: to remove by or as if by breaking
broke off a chunk of bread
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
Recent Examples on the Web
The former president was hospitalized on Friday after strong abdominal pains during an event with supporters in northeastern Brazil, forcing him to break off a regional tour aimed at drumming up support ahead of a trial before the Supreme Court.
—
Reuters, CNN Money, 14 Apr. 2025
As garments are laundered and worn, small fiber pieces break off.
—Carved In Blue, Sourcing Journal, 2 Apr. 2025
Today, China has displaced the United States as the primary trading partner for several major economies and persuaded most countries in the region to break off formal ties with Taiwan.
—Matias Spektor, Foreign Affairs, 1 Apr. 2025
But after breaking off explosive runs early in the season, Lyle cemented himself as a key member of the running back rotation.
—Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 28 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for break off
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Reuters, CNN Money, 14 Apr. 2025
As garments are laundered and worn, small fiber pieces break off.
—Carved In Blue, Sourcing Journal, 2 Apr. 2025
Today, China has displaced the United States as the primary trading partner for several major economies and persuaded most countries in the region to break off formal ties with Taiwan.
—Matias Spektor, Foreign Affairs, 1 Apr. 2025
But after breaking off explosive runs early in the season, Lyle cemented himself as a key member of the running back rotation.
—Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 28 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for break off
Cite this Entry
“Break off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/break%20off. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.
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