Meaning and Usage
"壊す" (こわす) is a common verb meaning "to break" or "to destroy" something physically or abstractly. It is often used when something is damaged unintentionally or intentionally, such as breaking a toy, damaging a device, or breaking a promise.
Common Contexts
You will hear "壊す" in everyday situations involving objects, machines, or even abstract concepts like plans or promises. It is a transitive verb, so it always requires a direct object.
Collocations and Patterns
- 壊す + object: to break something physically (e.g., おもちゃを壊す - break a toy)
- 壊してしまう: to express regret or accidental breaking
- 約束を壊す: to break a promise
Register and Politeness
"壊す" is neutral and can be used in casual and polite speech. In polite contexts, it often appears as "壊します".
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "壊す" with "壊れる" (こわれる), which is the intransitive form meaning "something breaks" by itself. Remember, "壊す" requires a subject who breaks something else.