Translation guide
The English word "breakup" can refer to the end of a romantic relationship, the dissolution of a group or organization, or the division of something into parts. This guide focuses on the most common meaning for learners: the end of a romantic relationship.
To talk about a couple splitting up or ending their relationship.
The most common and general noun for a breakup. Can be used for any kind of parting, but in context clearly means romantic breakup.
彼氏と別れを経験した。
I went through a breakup with my boyfriend.
別れの理由は何ですか？
What was the reason for the breakup?
Specifically refers to a broken heart or unrequited love; the emotional experience of a breakup, especially when one is dumped.
失恋から立ち直れない。
I can't get over the breakup.
失恋の痛みは大きい。
The pain of a breakup is great.
The verb meaning 'to break up, to part'. Used for romantic relationships as well as other separations.
先週、彼女と別れた。
I broke up with my girlfriend last week.
二人は別れることにした。
The two of them decided to break up.
Casual verb meaning 'to be dumped'. The passive form of 振る (ふる), which means to reject or dump someone.
彼にフラれた。
I got dumped by him.
またフラれちゃった。
I got dumped again.
A more formal or dramatic term for a breakup, often implying a catastrophic end to a relationship. Used in serious contexts.
二人の関係は破局を迎えた。
Their relationship came to a breakup.
To talk about a band, team, company, or other group breaking up or disbanding.
The standard term for disbanding a group, such as a band, committee, or organization.
そのバンドは去年解散した。
That band broke up last year.
解散総会が開かれた。
A dissolution general meeting was held.
Means 'split' or 'division', often used when a group breaks into factions.
To talk about breaking something into pieces or segments, such as a company, text, or physical object.
General term for dividing or splitting something into parts. Used for companies, tasks, assets, etc.
会社を分割する計画がある。
There is a plan to break up the company.
作業を分割して行う。
We will break up the work and do it in parts.
Means 'dismantling' or 'breaking up' a structure, system, or organization. Often used for physical demolition or decommissioning.
The loanword ブレークアップ is not commonly used for romantic breakups. Stick to native Japanese terms like 別れ or 失恋.
別れ is a neutral term for parting or breakup. 失恋 specifically focuses on the emotional pain of a broken heart, often from the perspective of the one who was rejected.
二人の別れは大変だった。
Their breakup was messy.
政党が分裂した。
The political party broke up (split).
古いビルを解体する。
They are breaking up the old building.