ブレーキ
Meanings
1
Refers to the mechanical device for slowing or stopping a vehicle or machine.
The car's brakes stopped working.
2
Figurative use: something that slows or halts a process, behavior, or development. Often used in phrases like ブレーキをかける (to put the brakes on something).
The government announced policies to put the brakes on inflation.
Usage patterns
- ブレーキを踏むto step on the brake
I thought it was dangerous and slammed on the brake.
- 〈事〉にブレーキがかかるfor something (a process, trend, etc.) to be checked or slowed down
The economic recovery hit a snag.
- ブレーキが利くfor the brakes to work properly
On rainy days the brakes don't work as well.
- ブレーキが甘いfor the brakes to be weak or loose
This bicycle's brakes are weak and it's scary to ride.
- ブレーキを外すto release the brake
I released the brake before leaving the parking lot.
Expressions
- ブレーキをかけるput on the brakes; apply the brakes · put a stop to; rein in; curb