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fall apart
/fɔːl əˈpɑːrt/◆phrasal verb
to break down or disintegrate
The old bridge fell apart after years of neglect.
The bridge physically collapsed due to lack of maintenance.
literal
To break into pieces or disintegrate physically
The sandcastle fell apart when the waves hit it.
The sandcastle was destroyed by the ocean waves.
Used to describe physical disintegration.
figurative
To fail or collapse emotionally, mentally, or organizationally
After the scandal, the company fell apart.
The company collapsed due to the scandal.
She fell apart when she heard the bad news.
She became emotionally overwhelmed by the news.
Commonly used to describe emotional breakdowns or organizational failures.
Collocations
fall apart at the seamsto be on the verge of collapse
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'fall apart' for both physical and emotional breakdowns.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Do not use 'fall apart' for minor issues; reserve it for significant failures.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'fallen' (to descend) and 'apart' (separately). The phrasal verb emerged in the 16th century.
Usage Notes
Often used figuratively to describe emotional or organizational collapse. Avoid using it for minor issues.
Word Breakdown
fall
to descend or collapse
rootapart
separately or in pieces
adverbEnglish Dictionary