break off

verb

1. to sever or detach or be severed or detached

   he broke a piece off the bar of chocolate

   it broke off in my hands

2. adverb to end (a relationship, association, etc) or (of a relationship, etc) to be ended
3. intr, adverb to stop abruptly; halt

   he broke off in the middle of his speech

noun

1. the act or an instance of breaking off or stopping

Example Sentences

What a break-off, leaving the gasping reader in a state of choking suspense, of avid, ungratified curiosity!

From Project Gutenberg

The whole of his break-off with Lady Helena is very well done.

From Project Gutenberg

Moreover, the break-off of diplomatic relations initiated the certain hope of a happier future.

From Project Gutenberg

The miners work the seam till they come to this break-off, and then call for an expert to "read the fault."

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• cease
• discontinue
• halt
• suspend
• terminate