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.
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.
The castle is in ruins.
Describes desolation or devastation, often of land or large areas. More literary or formal.
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.
The picnic was ruined by the rain.
The mood was ruined by his one remark.
Casual and broad; means 'became no good' or 'ruined'. Used for food, plans, people, etc.
The milk has gone bad.
Specifically means 'rotten' or 'spoiled' for organic matter like food. Not used for abstract ruin.
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.
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.
The noble family was ruined.
Describing a person who feels completely broken or destroyed inside.
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.
The plan is ruined. (unnatural)
The plan is ruined. (natural)
計画がダメになった。
The plan is ruined.
Idiomatic phrase meaning to ruin oneself through vice or poor choices, often implying moral decay.
He ruined himself through gambling.