B2verb2K

Collapse

UK //kəˈlæps//US //kəˈlæps//

Definition

To fall down or give way suddenly.

In simple words: To fall down or break apart suddenly

Examples

The old bridge began to collapse under the weight of the truck.
After years of mismanagement, the company finally had to collapse.
During the earthquake, several buildings collapsed around us.
The economy is at risk of collapse if these policies are not changed.
She could feel her energy collapsing after working all day.

Usage notes

Use 'collapse' for physical structures or figurative situations. In formal contexts, it may refer to systems or economies.

Grammar pattern

collapse + object

Memory hint

Imagine a building 'collapsing' like a stack of blocks tumbling down.

Collocations

collapse suddenly
collapse under pressure
collapse of a building
economic collapse
collapse into despair

Synonyms

crumble
fall
fail
break down
disintegrate

Antonyms

rise
stand
build

Common mistakes

Confusing with 'collapse' as a noun; 'collapse' is a verb.
Using 'collapse' without an object (it can be intransitive).
Mixing up with 'fall' in contexts where 'collapse' suggests sudden failure.