Definition of Broken
The word “broken” is an adjective and past participle of “break,” meaning damaged, fractured, or not functioning properly. It can also signify emotional distress or a state of being incomplete.
Synonyms for Broken
Strongest Matches
These words are the closest in meaning to “broken”:
- Shattered
- Fractured
- Ruined
- Destroyed
- Cracked
- Damaged
- Crushed
- Split
- Torn
- Wrecked
Strong Matches
These words share a similar meaning but may have slight variations in use:
- Defective
- Impaired
- Busted
- Faulty
- Injured
- Weakened
- Decomposed
- Disjointed
- Collapsed
- Inoperative
Weak Matches
These words are loosely related to “broken” but carry nuanced meanings:
- Worn
- Flawed
- Dismantled
- Brittle
- Incomplete
- Disrupted
- Dilapidated
- Severed
- Invalid
- Unstable
Example Sentences Using “Broken”
- The vase fell from the shelf and lay broken on the floor.
- After years of hardship, he felt broken in both body and spirit.
- The old radio was completely broken and wouldn’t turn on.
- She picked up the broken pieces of her shattered dreams.
- His broken English made communication difficult.
- The bridge was broken due to the storm, rendering it impassable.
- My phone screen is broken, so I can’t use it properly.
- Trust, once broken, is difficult to rebuild.
- The economy is broken and needs urgent reform.
- The agreement was broken when one party failed to comply.
Contextual Usage of “Broken”
- Physical Damage: “The broken chair needs repairs.”
- Emotional Distress: “She felt broken after the tragic loss.”
- Malfunction: “My car is broken again.”
- Relationship Issues: “Their friendship was broken beyond repair.”
- Rules and Promises: “He broke his promise and left her feeling betrayed.”
- Language and Communication: “His broken speech indicated his struggle with the new language.”
Related Words
- Break (verb) – to separate or damage something
- Fracture (noun/verb) – a crack or split in a hard object
- Disrepair (noun) – a state of needing repair
- Shattered (adjective) – completely broken into small pieces
- Crippled (adjective) – severely damaged or impaired
- Worn-out (adjective) – damaged from overuse
- Ruined (adjective) – completely destroyed or beyond repair
- Defective (adjective) – not functioning as intended
- Decrepit (adjective) – weakened due to age or neglect
Additional Relevant Information
- Etymology: “Broken” originates from the Old English word “brocen,” meaning fractured or damaged.
- Common Idioms:
- “A broken record” – something repeated excessively
- “Broken-hearted” – deeply saddened, usually by love
- “Broken beyond repair” – irreversibly damaged
- “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” – don’t alter something that works well
- Synonyms in Literature: Many poets and authors use words like “shattered,” “ruined,” and “fractured” to describe both physical and emotional states.
Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to provide accurate synonyms and contextual meanings, words may carry different connotations based on usage and dialects. Always refer to authoritative linguistic sources for precise definitions.
