break down vs modify

break down and modify both are verbs.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
break down	No	No	Yes	No
modify	No	No	Yes	No

As verbs, modify is a hypernym of break down; that is, modify is a word with a broader meaning than break down:

Other hypernyms of break down include alter, change.

break down (verb)	modify (verb)
collapse due to fatigue, an illness, or a sudden attack	make less severe or harsh or extreme
stop operating or functioning	add a modifier to a constituent
separate (substances) into constituent elements or parts	cause to change; make different; cause a transformation
make a mathematical, chemical, or grammatical analysis of; break down into components or essential features
make ineffective
cause to fall or collapse
lose control of one's emotions
fall apart