collapse / breakdown
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collapse / breakdown
The sudden failure or breakdown of a system, organization, or structure.
Der Zusammenbruch des Stromnetzes legte die gesamte Stadt lahm.
The collapse of the power grid brought the entire city to a standstill.
'Der Zusammenbruch' (the collapse / breakdown) is the noun corresponding to the separable verb 'zusammenbrechen' (to collapse / break down). It describes the event or state when something or someone collapses or breaks down.
Das marode Gebäude ist plötzlich zusammengebrochen.
The dilapidated building suddenly collapsed.
The context makes clear which meaning is intended. If it is about a system (economy, traffic), meaning m01 is meant. If it is about a person (health, psyche), m02 is meant. If it is about a structure (bridge, house), m03 is meant.
Der Zusammenbruch des Internets führte zu Chaos. (System)
The breakdown of the internet led to chaos. (system)
When it is about a person, the verb 'erleiden' (to suffer) is often used: 'einen Zusammenbruch erleiden' (to suffer a breakdown). A very common combination is also 'der Nervenzusammenbruch' (nervous breakdown).
Nach wochenlangem Stress hat er einen Zusammenbruch erlitten.
After weeks of stress, he suffered a breakdown.
In the meaning of 'failure of a system', 'Zusammenbruch' (collapse / breakdown) is often combined with economic or organizational terms. Typical examples are: 'wirtschaftlicher Zusammenbruch' (economic collapse), 'Zusammenbruch des Imperiums' (collapse of the empire), or 'Zusammenbruch der Kommunikation' (breakdown of communication).
Die Hyperinflation führte zum wirtschaftlichen Zusammenbruch des Landes.
Hyperinflation led to the country's economic collapse.
downfall / sinking / sunset
'der Untergang' and 'der Zusammenbruch' can both describe something no longer functioning or coming to an end. 'Zusammenbruch' often emphasizes the sudden failure or breakdown of a system, organization, or structure. 'Untergang' sounds larger and more final; it is especially suitable for empires, cultures, eras, or powers. A 'Zusammenbruch' can be the reason for an 'Untergang'. If you mean the moment of failure, 'Zusammenbruch' is more precise. If you mean the final end of something large, 'Untergang' fits better.
Nach dem Stromausfall kam es zum Zusammenbruch des Computersystems.
After the power outage, the computer system broke down.
Der Krieg führte zum Untergang einer ganzen Epoche.
The war led to the downfall of an entire era.