01
zerbrechen
to break
To fall apart into pieces or become damaged, usually because of a fall or impact (intransitive).
example
Das Glas ist vom Tisch gefallen und zerbrochen.
The glass fell off the table and broke.
zerbrechen
to break
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure: prefix 'zer-'
'Zerbrechen' (to break) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'zer-' often expresses destruction or falling apart into many pieces. This idea is reflected in all meanings of the word.
EXAMPLE
Durch den Sturm zerbrach der alte Baum in der Mitte.
Because of the storm, the old tree broke in the middle.
Transitive vs. intransitive
This verb can be used transitively (with an accusative object) or intransitively (without an object). The auxiliary verb in the perfect tense changes accordingly: intransitive with 'sein', transitive with 'haben'.
EXAMPLE
Die Vase ist vom Regal gefallen und zerbrochen.
The vase fell from the shelf and broke.
Figurative use
In a figurative sense, 'zerbrechen' (to break down/fail) is used for abstract things that end or fail. Typical nouns are 'eine Freundschaft' (a friendship), 'eine Beziehung' (a relationship), 'Vertrauen' (trust), or 'eine Hoffnung' (a hope).
EXAMPLE
Nach diesem Verrat ist ihr Vertrauen zerbrochen.
After this betrayal, her trust was broken.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'sich den Kopf zerbrechen' (to rack one's brain) is reflexive and uses the dative ('sich'). The topic one is thinking about is introduced with the preposition 'über' (+ accusative).
EXAMPLE
Er zerbricht sich den Kopf darüber, wie er das Geld zurückzahlen soll.
He is racking his brain about how he should pay the money back.
Compare with
zerbrechen vs zerstören
to destroy
'zerstören' and 'zerbrechen' can both mean that something breaks or comes to an end. 'zerstören' is stronger and more general: someone or something causes major damage, so that something is no longer usable, or a hope, relationship, or plan is ruined. 'zerbrechen' fits especially when something breaks into pieces, such as glass, or when something abstract slowly fails. The grammar is also important: 'Die Tasse zerbricht' means the cup breaks; 'Tom zerbricht die Tasse' means he breaks the cup. Learners can easily confuse the words because both express damage. However, 'zerbrechen' often emphasizes breaking apart, while 'zerstören' emphasizes the serious damage overall.
zerbrechen
Beim Umzug zerbricht leider der große Spiegel im Flur.
During the move, the large mirror in the hallway unfortunately breaks.
zerstören
Der starke Regen zerstört die Ernte auf den Feldern.
The heavy rain is destroying the crops in the fields.
In real life
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