Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Tear" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "tear", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
破る
やぶる (yaburu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
綻び
ほころび (hokorobi)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "tear" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 破る and 綻び.
In Japanese, 破る (やぶる (yaburu)) is typically associated with "to tear, to rip, to break (a rule/promise) (transitive)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A transitive verb, meaning someone intentionally tears something, or breaks a rule/promise. Often used with を..
On the other hand, 綻び (ほころび (hokorobi)) maps to "tear, rip, loose thread (in clothes); a crack/flaw (in a plan/relationship)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Can refer to a physical tear in fabric or, metaphorically, a flaw or crack appearing in a plan, relationship, or perfect facade. Often used with が出る. A literal translation of "tear" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "破る"
彼は秘密の約束を破ってしまった。
He broke the secret promise.
Bilingual Context for "綻び"
古いコートの袖に綻びが見つかった。
A tear was found in the sleeve of the old coat.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は秘密の約束を破ってしまった。" (Meaning: "He broke the secret promise.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "破る" fits here because it means "to tear, to rip, to break (a rule/promise) (transitive)" in the context of: "He broke the secret promise.". "綻び" represents "tear, rip, loose thread (in clothes); a crack/flaw (in a plan/relationship)".