Definition of Collapse
Quick Meaning of Collapse
When something suddenly falls apart, breaks, or fails, or when a person loses consciousness.
Detailed Definition of Collapse
To fall down or inward suddenly; to break down or fail completely.
How to Pronounce Collapse
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: kə-LÆPS. The 'a' in the second syllable sounds like the 'a' in 'cat'.
Watch out: Avoid stressing the first syllable (KÆPS); the stress belongs on the second syllable only.
Origin and Etymology of Collapse
From Latin collapsus, past participle of collabi, meaning to fall together.
How to Use Collapse in a Sentence
Each example shows “collapse” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The tent collapsed under the weight of heavy snow.”
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“The company collapsed after losing its main investor.”
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“He collapsed from exhaustion and had to go to the hospital.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Collapse
Common Synonyms for Collapse
Smart Synonyms for Collapse — When to Use Each
- crumble
- when structure gradually weakens or breaks into pieces
- fail
- when describing a system or organization falling apart
Antonyms of Collapse
Common Collocations with Collapse
These phrases pair with “collapse” in everyday English:
- collapse from exhaustion
- collapse under pressure
- building collapse
- bridge collapse
- economic collapse
Common Mistakes When Using Collapse
Even fluent speakers slip up with “collapse”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The roof was collapsed by the weight.
- ✓ Correct: The weight collapsed the roof or The roof collapsed from the weight.
- Why: 'Collapse' when passive sounds awkward; use active voice or 'collapsed from'.
- ✗ Wrong: The company will be collapse next year.
- ✓ Correct: The company will collapse next year.
- Why: Use base verb form 'collapse' after 'will', not 'be collapse'.
Other Forms of Collapse
- Noun: collapse
- Verb: collapse
- Adjective: collapsible
Frequently Asked Questions About Collapse
What is the meaning of "Collapse"?
When something suddenly falls apart, breaks, or fails, or when a person loses consciousness.
How do you pronounce "Collapse"?
The IPA is /kəˈlæps/. Stress the second syllable: kə-LÆPS. The 'a' in the second syllable sounds like the 'a' in 'cat'.
What part of speech is "Collapse"?
"Collapse" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Collapse"?
Common synonyms include crumble, fall apart, fail.
How do you use "Collapse" in a sentence?
For example: "The tent collapsed under the weight of heavy snow."