Translation guide
Describes something that has been destroyed, spoiled, or made useless. The most common Japanese expressions depend on whether the ruin is physical, emotional, or situational.
Describing buildings, objects, or places that are broken, collapsed, or beyond repair.
The most common and versatile word for 'broken' or 'ruined' for objects and machines. It implies something is no longer functional.
この時計は壊れている。
This clock is ruined.
The house was ruined by the earthquake.
Specifically refers to ruins or abandoned, dilapidated structures. Often used for historical or post-disaster sites.
その城は廃墟になっている。
The castle is in ruins.
Describes desolation or devastation, often of land or large areas. More literary or formal.
戦争で国土が荒廃した。
The country was ruined by war.
Describing something that has gone bad, been wasted, or become impossible to use as intended.
Means 'completely spoiled' or 'ruined' for abstract things like plans, moods, or efforts. Very common in daily conversation.
雨でピクニックが台無しになった。
The picnic was ruined by the rain.
彼の一言で雰囲気が台無しになった。
The mood was ruined by his one remark.
Casual and broad; means 'became no good' or 'ruined'. Used for food, plans, people, etc.
牛乳がダメになった。
The milk has gone bad.
計画がダメになった。
The plan is ruined.
Specifically means 'rotten' or 'spoiled' for organic matter like food. Not used for abstract ruin.
この肉は腐っている。
This meat is spoiled.
Describing a person or entity that has lost money, reputation, or status.
Means 'bankrupt' or financially ruined. Used for individuals and companies.
彼は事業に失敗して破産した。
He was ruined after his business failed.
Refers to a fall from power or prosperity, often for families or social classes. More historical or dramatic.
その貴族の家系は没落した。
The noble family was ruined.
Describing a person who feels completely broken or destroyed inside.
Means 'devastated' or 'crushed' emotionally. Often used after a major setback or loss.
彼はその知らせに打ちのめされた。
He was ruined by the news.
Literally 'heart broke', meaning spirit is broken or one has given up. Common in casual contexts.
何度も失敗して心が折れた。
After failing so many times, I was ruined.
English 'ruined' covers many situations, but Japanese uses different words for physical destruction, spoilage, financial ruin, and emotional devastation. Using 壊れた for a spoiled plan or a bankrupt person sounds unnatural.
計画が壊れた。
The plan is ruined. (unnatural)
計画が台無しになった。
The plan is ruined. (natural)
Idiomatic phrase meaning to ruin oneself through vice or poor choices, often implying moral decay.
彼はギャンブルで身を持ち崩した。
He ruined himself through gambling.