B2verb1K

Crack

UK /["/kræk/","/kræks/","/krækt/","/ˈkrækɪŋ/"]/US /["/kræk/","/kræks/","/krækt/","/ˈkrækɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to break without dividing into separate parts; to break something in this way

In simple words: to break something into pieces or make a sound like a break

Examples

  • He tried to crack the safe but was unsuccessful.
  • The comedian's jokes always crack the audience up.
  • She heard the ice crack beneath her feet.
  • The detective managed to crack the difficult case.
  • I cracked my phone screen when I dropped it.
  • He cracked a smile after hearing the good news.
  • The pressure caused the rock to crack open.
  • She cracked a joke during the meeting to lighten the mood.

Usage notes

Use 'crack' when referring to breaking physical objects or when discussing solving puzzles or codes. It's neutral and appropriate in most contexts, both formal and informal.

Grammar pattern

crack + object (e.g., crack a code)

Memory hint

Imagine a loud crack as a branch breaks under your feet.

Collocations

  • hard
  • crack under the pressure
  • crack under the strain
  • show signs of cracking
  • on

Synonyms

  • get going

Antonyms

  • fix
  • repair
  • join

Common mistakes

  • Using 'crack' with non-physical objects incorrectly, like 'crack a thought.'
  • Confusing 'crack' with 'break' in certain contexts.
  • Using 'cracked' instead of 'crack' for the present tense.