Understanding Phrasal Verbs Substitution

The question asks us to find the most appropriate phrasal verb to replace the underlined segment "entered by force into" in the sentence: "The commanders entered by force into terrorists’ camp." The core meaning we need to capture is entering a place using force, often illegally or without permission.

Analysing the Phrasal Verb Options

Let's examine the meanings of the given phrasal verbs:

• broke down: This phrasal verb has several meanings, such as ceasing to function (for a machine or vehicle), becoming emotionally distressed, or dividing something into smaller parts for analysis. For example, "The car broke down on the highway" or "He broke down in tears."
• broke with: This means to end a relationship or an association with someone or something, often involving a disagreement or change in policy. For example, "She broke with her political party over the issue."
• broke into: This phrasal verb commonly means to enter a building or place illegally and often by force. It can also mean to suddenly begin doing something (like "broke into a run") or dividing something into parts. The first meaning, entering by force, is highly relevant to the context of the sentence. For example, "Thieves broke into the house."
• broke off: This means to separate a part from something larger, or to end a relationship, negotiation, or discussion abruptly. For example, "He broke off a piece of chocolate" or "The talks broke off without agreement."

Why 'Broke Into' is the Correct Choice

The original phrase "entered by force into" specifically describes the action of entering a place (the terrorists' camp) using force, implying it was not a peaceful or permitted entry. Among the given options, the phrasal verb "broke into" directly corresponds to this meaning. When someone "breaks into" a place, they enter it by overcoming resistance or security measures, which aligns perfectly with the idea of entering "by force into" a protected area like a camp.

Let's substitute "broke into" into the sentence:

The commanders broke into terrorists’ camp.

This sentence accurately conveys that the commanders entered the camp using force, which matches the original meaning.

Eliminating Other Options

Let's see why the other options are not suitable:

• broke down: This does not relate to entering a place by force. Its meanings involve failure, emotional collapse, or analysis, none of which fit the context of invading a camp.
• broke with: This concerns ending relationships or associations. It has no meaning related to physical entry into a location.
• broke off: This means separating a part or ending something abruptly. It does not describe the act of entering a place by force.

Therefore, based on the meanings of the phrasal verbs, "broke into" is the only option that correctly substitutes "entered by force into".

Revision Table: Phrasal Verbs Meaning

Additional Information on Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs are common in English and consist of a verb combined with an adverb or a preposition, or sometimes both. The combination often creates a new meaning different from the original verb alone. Understanding phrasal verbs is crucial for improving English fluency and comprehension.

Examples of other phrasal verbs using "break":

• break out: start suddenly (like a fire or war); escape from a prison or confinement; develop a skin condition.
• break up: end a relationship; divide into smaller pieces; disperse (a meeting or crowd); laugh uncontrollably.
• break away: escape from someone's control; separate from a group.

The meaning of a phrasal verb is often idiomatic, meaning it cannot be guessed from the individual words. Learning them requires understanding their specific uses in different contexts.