Broke up is a commonly used phrase that refers to the end of a romantic relationship or a friendship. It is a term that is often associated with sadness, heartbreak, and disappointment. However, the word broke up has a broader meaning that goes beyond just relationships. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of broke up, its origin, synonyms, antonyms, and associations.
Definitions
Broke up is a phrasal verb that means to end a relationship or a friendship. It can also refer to the act of separating or dividing something into smaller parts. The term broke up is often used in the context of romantic relationships, but it can also be used to describe the end of a business partnership or a group.
Origin
The origin of the phrase broke up is not clear, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century. The word broke is derived from the Old English word broc, which means to break or to separate. The word up is used to indicate completion or finality, as in the phrase “wrap up” or “clean up.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, broke up means to end a relationship or a friendship. The Cambridge Dictionary defines broke up as the end of a romantic relationship or a marriage. The Oxford English Dictionary describes the phrase as the termination of a partnership or a group.
Associations
The term broke up is often associated with feelings of sadness, heartbreak, and disappointment. It can also be associated with feelings of relief or liberation, depending on the circumstances. The phrase is often used in songs, movies, and literature to describe the end of a relationship or a friendship.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for broke up, including split up, break off, end, terminate, and dissolve. These words are often used interchangeably with broke up to describe the end of a relationship or a partnership.
Antonyms
The antonyms of broke up are togetherness, unity, and continuity. These words are used to describe the opposite of the end of a relationship or a partnership.
The same root words
The same root words as broke up include broken, break, and separate. These words are used to describe the act of dividing or separating something into smaller parts.
Example Sentences
- “They broke up last week after being together for five years.”
- “The band broke up after their lead singer quit.”
- “I had to break up with my best friend because we had grown apart.”
- “The business partnership dissolved after they had a disagreement.”
- “After the storm, the waves broke up the sandcastle.”