broken - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
broken Word Meanings
- damaged or not functioning
- in pieces or completely shattered
- not kept or morally unreliable (as in a broken promise) or a broken heart
broken Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
broken Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbrəʊ.kən/
US
/ˈbroʊ.kən/
broken Word Etymology
Root decomposition: break + -en, with break as the verb root and -en forming the past participle. Historical origin: from Old English brecan 'to break', from Proto-Germanic *brekaną; related to Dutch breken and German brechen, ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European root *bhreg- 'to break'. Memory image: imagine a delicate vase snapped in two by a careless hand, shards scattering as the word break turns into pieces.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for a mug and feel the glaze cool under my fingers as a hairline crack shows itself. I shift my grip, turn it in my palm, and decide to set it down before it leaks. It slips from my fingers and breaks, and I hold my breath as the scene changes from usable to uncertain. The moment lingers, and I learn to move on and adjust my plans next time.
Real Context
broken is the past participle of break and functions as an adjective or passive participle, describing a state rather than an action. It covers damaged or not functioning objects (a broken phone, a broken window), pieces that have separated (a broken vase), and figurative states (a broken promise, a broken heart). In everyday usage, be + broken is common for current condition, while break is used for the act (to break something). Learners often confuse the idea of breaking a habit with breaking a promise, or mix up meanings like broken glass versus broken equipment. Idioms and collocations vary by context, such as a broken record or a broken system which imply recurring faults rather than a one-off incident.
Usage Reminders
- Use be + broken for current state. Describe objects that no longer work. Distinguish broken from break (act). Remember broken promises and broken hearts as figurative. Avoid saying 'breaked' or 'broke' when you mean state. Pair with common nouns: broken glass, broken system, broken down car. Consider context: physical damage vs moral failure. Use synonyms like damaged, shattered when appropriate. Keep consistent tense with other descriptions. Note fixed phrases: broken record, broken light, broken into pieces.
Common Misconceptions
- Broken is only a physical state, not a verb form
- You can say broke to describe a current condition
- A broken heart means the heart is literally broken, not morally damaged
- Broken cannot describe relationships that have not yet failed
- Always say broken as an adjective, never use it as a past participle
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate state (adjective) from action (verb). Learners often carry over the participle form into situations where a simple adjective would suffice, or misinterpret figurative uses as literal ones.
Learning Tips
- Link broken with be to describe current state
- Practice with objects, systems, and abstract ideas
- Distinguish broken from break in meaning and syntax
- Use idioms like broken promise and broken heart in context
- Memorize common collocations: broken glass, broken system
- Compare with synonyms such as damaged, shattered in nuanced cases
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'broken' correctly?
A.He was happy that his car was broken.
B.She fixed the broken vase with glue.
C.The broken clock is ticking loudly.
D.They broke the broken window.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'broken'?
A.Fast
B.Sunny
C.Fixed
D.Tall
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'broken'?
A.Intact
B.Shattered
C.Destroyed
D.Fractured
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'broken'?
A.The sunny day
B.The shattered glass
C.The fast car
D.The tall building
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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