Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Break" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "break", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
壊れる
こわれる (kowareru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
休憩
きゅうけい (kyuukei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "break" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 壊れる and 休憩.
In Japanese, 壊れる (こわれる (kowareru)) is typically associated with "to break (intransitive)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used when something breaks *by itself* or the cause is not specified. It emphasizes the state of being broken.
On the other hand, 休憩 (きゅうけい (kyuukei)) maps to "break, rest (noun); to take a break (する)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A short pause from work, study, or other activity to rest. Often used with する. A literal translation of "break" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "壊れる"
私のパソコンが壊れてしまいました。
My computer broke.
Bilingual Context for "休憩"
仕事の合間に休憩する。
I take a break between work.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私のパソコンが壊れてしまいました。" (Meaning: "My computer broke.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "壊れる" fits here because it means "to break (intransitive)" in the context of: "My computer broke.". "休憩" represents "break, rest (noun); to take a break (する)".