Meaning and Usage
The verb 壊れる (こわれる) means "to be broken" or "to break" and is used to describe something that becomes damaged or stops functioning properly. It is an intransitive verb, so the subject is the thing that breaks by itself or due to some cause.
Common Contexts
壊れる is often used for physical objects like machines, electronics, or tools that stop working or get damaged. It can also be used metaphorically, such as when relationships or promises "break".
Collocations and Patterns
- 壊れる + もの (e.g., 時計が壊れる): describing an object breaking.
- 壊れて + しまう: expressing regret or completion of the breaking.
- 約束が壊れる: a promise or agreement breaking.
Register and Politeness
壊れる is neutral and commonly used in everyday conversation. When reporting broken items politely, you might add しまいました to express regret.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 壊れる (intransitive) with 壊す (こわす), which is the transitive verb meaning "to break (something)". Remember 壊れる describes the state of being broken, not the action of breaking something.