01
kaputt
broken
No longer working, broken, or damaged. Usually refers to objects or devices.
example
Mein Handy ist heruntergefallen und jetzt ist das Display kaputt.
My phone fell down, and now the display is broken.
kaputt
broken / exhausted
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Sentence structure and use
The adjective 'kaputt' (broken/exhausted) is very often used as part of the predicate with verbs like 'sein' (to be) or 'gehen' (to go). Attributive use before a noun, as in 'das kaputte Fahrrad' (the broken bicycle), is possible, but less common.
EXAMPLE
Das Glas ist kaputt.
The glass is broken.
Typical verbs
Two very common verbs formed with 'kaputt' (broken) are 'kaputtgehen' (for something to break by itself) and 'kaputtmachen' (for someone to break something intentionally or unintentionally).
EXAMPLE
Die alte Waschmaschine ist einfach kaputtgegangen.
The old washing machine simply broke.
Context clue
The context reveals the exact meaning: if 'kaputt' (broken) refers to an object, it is broken. If it refers to a person, they are exhausted. If it refers to something abstract like a relationship, it has failed.
EXAMPLE
Der Fernseher ist kaputt.
The television is broken.
Register: colloquial language
When 'kaputt' (exhausted) describes a person who is very tired or worn out, it is used colloquially. In more formal contexts, you would rather say 'erschöpft' (exhausted) or 'ermüdet' (fatigued).
EXAMPLE
Nach der Arbeit bin ich oft völlig kaputt.
After work, I'm often completely exhausted.
Compare with
kaputt vs außer
except / besides
'außer' and 'kaputt' are similar only in a specific context: in the expression 'außer Betrieb' (out of service). When a vending machine or elevator is 'außer Betrieb', it is currently not working or not being used. 'kaputt' says more generally that something is damaged or no longer works. 'außer Betrieb' often sounds more formal and is frequently seen on signs for devices or facilities. 'kaputt' is more natural in everyday life when simply talking about an object.
kaputt
Mein Handy ist kaputt und lässt sich nicht mehr einschalten.
My phone is broken and won't turn on anymore.
außer
Der Fahrstuhl ist heute außer Betrieb, deshalb nehmen wir die Treppe.
The elevator is out of service today, so we're taking the stairs.
In real life
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