What is the Difference Between Break and Brake?

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The difference between "break" and "brake" lies in their meanings and uses:

  • Brake:
  • As a noun, a brake refers to a device that stops or slows motion, such as the brakes on a car or a bike.
  • As a verb, brake means to use a braking device, often in the context of vehicles.
  • Break:
  • As a noun, break can refer to an interruption of continuity, a pause in work or during an activity, or a state of being damaged or separated into pieces.
  • As a verb, break can refer to the act of separating into parts or pieces, taking a pause or rest during work or an activity, or causing an interruption in a course or continuous state.

Examples of each word include:

  • Brake:
  • A driver applies the brake to slow down their vehicle.
  • The bike's brake pads need to be replaced.
  • Break:
  • The package was too heavy, so it broke into pieces.
  • She took a break from work to recharge her energy.

Comparative Table: Break vs Brake

Here is a table comparing the differences between "break" and "brake":

Feature Break Brake
Meaning To split or shatter something into pieces, or to take a pause. A device used to slow down or stop the motion of a vehicle or a machine.
Grammar Can be used as a noun or a verb. Primarily used as a noun or a verb.
Examples - She broke the silence.
- The glass broke into pieces.
- He took a break from work.
- The car's brake system needs to be checked regularly.
- He pressed the brake pedal to stop the bicycle.
- The truck driver applied the brakes to avoid an accident.

In summary, "break" has multiple meanings, including separating into pieces, causing damage, or interrupting an action, while "brake" refers to a device used to slow down or stop the motion of a vehicle or a machine. The word "brake" is primarily used as a noun or a verb in connection with vehicles, whereas "break" has different meanings and applications in various contexts.