
Conk out
Unexpected Failure
Used when something abruptly stops working, especially mechanical or electronic gadgets.
My phone conked out in the middle of the call.
Not for People
Avoid using 'conk out' for people failing tasks; it's for objects failing to function.
The heater conked out, not 'He conked out trying to lift the box.'
Casual Context
Appropriate in informal conversations but may be too casual for formal writing.
During the road trip, our van conked out.
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