In the question below, four sentences are given. Only one of them uses the phrasal verb "break down" correctly in context. Choose the correct option. If none of the sentences is correct, select option (E) None is correct.

To identify the correct usage of the phrasal verb "break down", let's analyze its common meanings and how they apply to the given options:

1. To stop functioning/working: This is typically used for machinery, vehicles, or systems when they fail or cease to operate. Let's look at the sentence: "The washing machine tends to break down every time we overload it." Here, "break down" correctly describes the mechanical failure of the washing machine due to overloading.
2. To divide into smaller parts or analyze: This means to decompose or simplify something. While stairs or cakes can be dismantled or cut, we do not use "break down the stairs" to mean taking them apart for painting (we might dismantle them, or simply prep them), nor do we "break down the cake" to serve it (we slice, cut, or divide a cake).
3. To lose control of one's emotions: This means to burst into tears or collapse emotionally, which does not fit any of the sentences.
4. Incorrect substitute for other phrasal verbs: In the sentence "I will break down my friend at the airport tomorrow morning," the intended meaning is to meet or drop off/pick up a friend, so "break down" is completely incorrect (the correct phrasal verb would be "drop off" or "pick up").

Therefore, the only sentence that uses the phrasal verb "break down" in a grammatically correct and contextually appropriate manner is: "The washing machine tends to break down every time we overload it."