01
zerschlagen
to smash
To break or shatter something into many pieces with great force.
example
Der Einbrecher hat die Fensterscheibe mit einem Stein zerschlagen.
The burglar smashed the windowpane with a stone.
zerschlagen
to smash / break up
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Inseparable verb
The prefix 'zer-' is inseparable and is never separated from the verb. It often expresses destruction or breaking apart, which can be seen in all meanings of 'zerschlagen' (to smash / break up).
EXAMPLE
Er hat aus Wut sein altes Handy zerschlagen.
Out of anger, he smashed his old phone.
Typical objects
In the physical meaning, 'zerschlagen' (to smash) is often used for fragile objects made of glass, ceramic, or porcelain. Typical objects are a bottle, a plate, or a windowpane.
EXAMPLE
Vorsicht, hier liegen Scherben, jemand hat eine Flasche zerschlagen.
Careful, there are shards here; someone smashed a bottle.
Figurative meaning
This meaning is metaphorical. Here, you do not 'zerschlagen' (smash) objects, but abstract structures. Typical objects are organizations such as a gang, a cartel, or a ring.
EXAMPLE
Der Polizei gelang es, den Schmugglerring zu zerschlagen.
The police managed to break up the smuggling ring.
Reflexive use
For failed plans or hopes, the verb is used reflexively: 'sich zerschlagen' (to fall through). The subject is always the plan or the hope, not the person.
EXAMPLE
Mein Plan, am Wochenende wegzufahren, hat sich leider zerschlagen.
Unfortunately, my plan to go away for the weekend fell through.
Compare with
zerschlagen vs zerstören
to destroy
'zerstören' and 'zerschlagen' are close in meaning because both can express severe destruction or damage. 'zerstören' is more general and fits many kinds of damage, including damage to feelings, relationships, or plans. 'zerschlagen' often emphasizes that something breaks into pieces with force, for example glass or dishes. Figuratively, 'zerschlagen' is also used when an organization or a plan is permanently broken up or destroyed. Learners may confuse the words because both refer to an end or major damage. As a guide: 'zerschlagen' fits especially well with pieces, force, or a plan that has definitively failed; 'zerstören' is more general and focuses on the result.
zerschlagen
Unsere Pläne für das Wochenende haben sich wegen der Arbeit zerschlagen.
Our plans for the weekend fell through because of work.
zerstören
Ein falsches Gerücht kann eine gute Freundschaft zerstören.
A false rumor can destroy a good friendship.
In real life
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