Confusing Words: Brake (noun/verb) and Break (noun/verb)
Meaning:
Brake (a device for slowing or stopping a moving vehicle, typically by applying pressure to the wheels.)
Break (separate or cause to separate into pieces as a result of a blow, shock, or strain.)
Brake vs Break Clarification: Brake and break are two different words with different meanings and functions within sentences.
Brake vs Break – What is the Difference, Definition & Meaning?
Is it brake or break?
The pronunciation of brake and break is exactly the same whereas, their spellings are quite close. This is the reason of the confusion between these two words. You should be careful with word choice as, you cannot mix these words.
I will define brake and break separately and use these words in example sentences. In this way, you will get the differences that keep them apart.
Brake
Brake is used as a noun or a verb within sentences. As a noun, brake is used to refer a device that is used to stop or to slow a vehicle.
As a verb, brake means to make a vehicle stop or slow by using a brake.
For example,
1. He applied the brake, but, unfortunately, the car did not stop. – (noun)
2. The drivers have one foot on the brake, one on the clutch and one on the throttle. (Bob Varsha) – (noun)
3. You have to brake when there is a curve comes on your way. – (verb)
Break
Break is used as a noun or a verb within sentences. As a verb, break means to divide or to separate something into parts. For example,
1. I know that one day, you will definitely break my most favourite dish.
2. The glass fell down and broke into small pieces.
In the above examples, break is related to the objects. You can also use break (as a verb) to mean to ruin or to destroy something; to stop or to overcome something. For example,
1. My friend will never break her promise.
2. I wished someone would shout at that moment to break the silence in the hall.
As a noun, break is used to refer an act of interruption of uniformity. For example,
1. The students were expecting a halftime break during the class.
2. I can see a break in the wall.
Check Out: The Difference Between Continually and Continuously.
Quiz
Here is a small quiz for you. Fill in the blanks by using brake or break.
1. Have you applied a ________ or did you act like Fast and Furious?
2. She did _________ my windows.
3. He will, for sure, ________ your heart; he’s a cheater.
4. _________ or else we’ll jump out of the car.
(answers at the end)
What Did You Learn?
Brake and break are two different words with different meanings and functions within sentences. Break is a noun or a verb. As a noun, it is an act of interruption whereas, as a verb, break means to divide, to separate or to destroy something. On the other hand, brake is used as a noun or a verb too. As a noun, it is a device used to stop or to slow down a vehicle whereas, as a verb, brake means to make a vehicle slow or stop by using a brake.
Answers: 1. Brake , 2. Break , 3. Break , 4. Brake