Translation guide
Expresses that something is physically damaged, not functioning, or in a state of disrepair. Japanese uses different verbs and adjectives depending on what is broken and how.
Describes objects that are cracked, smashed, or broken into pieces.
Intransitive verb for something being broken or out of order. Used for machines, furniture, and objects that can break down.
The TV is broken.
This chair is broken.
Intransitive verb for something cracking or breaking into pieces, especially glass, ceramics, or eggs.
Intransitive verb for something snapping or breaking, typically long, thin objects like sticks, bones, or pencils.
The pencil lead is broken.
The bone might be broken.
Intransitive verb for something being smashed or shattered into small pieces. More violent than 割れる.
The cup was broken into smithereens.
Describes devices or systems that are out of order or not working.
Suru-verb meaning to break down or malfunction. Often used for mechanical or electronic failures.
The air conditioner is broken.
The car broke down and won't move.
Also used for non-functioning items, but more general than 故障する. Can imply physical damage as well.
Literally 'doesn't move/work'. A simple way to say something isn't functioning.
The clock is broken (not working).
Refers to fractures or breaks in bones.
Describes violations or failures to keep commitments.
Describes a person's spirit or heart being crushed.
Describes imperfect, halting, or non-fluent language use.
壊れる is a general term for something being broken or out of order, often implying physical damage. 故障する specifically refers to mechanical or electronic malfunction and is more formal. Use 故障する for cars, appliances, and systems when the issue is functional rather than visibly smashed.
The English idiom 'broken heart' does not directly translate to 壊れた心. Instead, use 失恋 (broken heart from unrequited love) or 心が折れる (discouraged spirit).
パソコンが壊れた。
My computer is broken.
I fell and broke a bone.
His Japanese is broken.