Break up Definition 1 of 5Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact Conveys sadness or difficulty when a close relationship ends. My parents decided to break up; it's a tough time. Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Romantic Applies to business partnerships or friendships, not just romance. The band decided to break up after their final tour. Pro Tip 3/3Neutral Tone Can be used without implying who initiated the separation. They mutually agreed to break up the business.