Understanding Break and Brake

Break vs. Brake

The words “break” and “brake” sound the same but have different meanings. Let’s learn how they are different.

History

“Break” comes from Old English “brecan,” which means to shatter or damage something. “Brake” comes from a word used in the past to mean a tool that stops or slows something down.

How to Use Them

Break

“Break” is a verb. It means to separate into pieces or stop working.

• I did not mean to break the glass.
• Careful, or you will break your toy.
• We need to take a break and rest.
• If you drop the phone, it might break.
• Did you break the vase by accident?

Brake

“Brake” is also a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to slow down or stop. As a noun, it means the tool or part that slows a car.

• Use the brake to stop the bike.
• The car has new brakes.
• He had to brake hard to avoid the cat.
• The driver pressed the brake pedal.
• Good brakes are important for safety.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember: “Break” can end things “ripping” apart, and “Brake” slows by stopping. “Brake” and “stop” both have an “A.”

Summary

“Break” means damage or interrupt, like snapping or pausing. “Brake” means slow down or a thing that stops moving things. Keep these tips in mind, and you will be able to choose the right word!