Meaning and Usage
The suffix ～切れ (～きれ) is used to express that something is completely used up, sold out, or finished. It often attaches to nouns, especially items like tickets, bread, or supplies, to indicate they are no longer available.
Common Collocations
- 売り切れ (うりきれ): sold out — used for goods or tickets that are no longer available.
- 力が切れる (ちからがきれる): to run out of strength — used to describe physical exhaustion.
Nuances and Register
This suffix is common in everyday conversation and written notices, such as store signs or announcements. It is neutral in politeness but often appears in casual or business contexts.
Learner Tips
Do not confuse ～切れ with ～切る (～きる), which can mean "to do something completely" but functions differently grammatically. ～切れ specifically emphasizes the state of being finished or sold out.
Summary
Use ～切れ to clearly express that something is no longer available or has been completely used up, especially in contexts like shopping, events, or physical condition.