Meaning and Usage
The verb 崩れる (くずれる) primarily means "to collapse" or "to crumble." It is used both for physical objects, like mountainsides or buildings, and for abstract concepts such as plans or facial expressions. When used with physical objects, it often describes something falling apart or breaking down due to external forces like earthquakes or erosion.
Common Contexts
崩れる is frequently used in natural disaster contexts (e.g., landslides, earthquakes) and in everyday conversation to describe things falling apart figuratively, such as plans or composure.
Collocations and Patterns
- 崩れる + 斜面・壁・建物: describing physical collapse of slopes, walls, or buildings.
- 計画が崩れる: a plan falling apart or failing.
- 表情が崩れる: a facial expression breaking down, often indicating a loss of composure or sudden emotion.
Register and Nuance
崩れる is neutral in formality and can be used in both spoken and written Japanese. It conveys a sense of something losing its stable form or order, often unexpectedly.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 崩れる with 壊れる (こわれる), which also means "to break." 崩れる emphasizes a gradual or natural collapse or crumbling, often involving a loss of shape or order, while 壊れる is more about breaking or damaging an object. Use 崩れる for collapses and crumbling, especially with natural or abstract things.