collapse
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collapse
The sudden collapse of a structure such as a building, a bridge, or a tunnel.
Der Einsturz des alten Bergwerkstollens wurde durch starke Regenfälle verursacht.
The collapse of the old mine tunnel was caused by heavy rainfall.
collapse
A sudden, complete breakdown in a figurative sense, for example of a system, a plan, or an emotional state.
Die Finanzkrise führte zum Einsturz mehrerer großer Banken.
The financial crisis led to the collapse of several large banks.
'Einsturz' (collapse) is the noun form of the separable verb 'einstürzen' (to collapse). Both describe the sudden collapse of something, often inward, as the prefix 'ein-' suggests.
Die Feuerwehr warnte, dass das alte Haus bald einstürzen könnte.
The fire department warned that the old house could collapse soon.
A common and useful expression is 'etwas zum Einsturz bringen' (to cause something to collapse). It means that you actively cause something to collapse and can be used both literally and figuratively.
Die schweren Schneemassen haben das Dach zum Einsturz gebracht.
The heavy masses of snow caused the roof to collapse.
The figurative meaning can be recognized from context. If 'Einsturz' (collapse) refers to abstract things like a system, a market, a government, or a plan, the metaphorical meaning is meant.
Der Skandal führte zum Einsturz seiner politischen Karriere.
The scandal led to the collapse of his political career.
collapse / breakdown
When a structure collapses, both Zusammenbruch and Einsturz are possible. Einsturz refers to this physical process more directly and precisely, while Zusammenbruch is used more broadly. Einsturz is therefore usually the more appropriate choice for a building or tunnel that suddenly falls down.
Der plötzliche Einsturz der Tunneldecke blockierte die Straße.
The sudden collapse of the tunnel ceiling blocked the road.
Der Zusammenbruch der gesamten Dachkonstruktion machte das Haus unbewohnbar.
The collapse of the entire roof structure made the house uninhabitable.
