Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "壊れる", "故障する", "折れる", "息抜き"
All represent the core concept "break", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
壊れる
こわれる (kowareru)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
故障する
こしょうする (koshō suru)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
折れる
おれる (oreru)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
息抜き
いきぬき (ikinuki)
N2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "break" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "壊れる", "故障する", "折れる", "息抜き" based on context.
- 壊れる (こわれる (kowareru) - Level: N4): Maps to "to break (intransitive)" and is used when Used when something breaks *by itself* or the cause is not specified. It emphasizes the state of being broken.
- 故障する (こしょうする (koshō suru) - Level: N4): Maps to "to break down, to malfunction" and is used when Used for machines, devices, or vehicles when they stop working properly. It's a する-verb, often used intransitively..
- 折れる (おれる (oreru) - Level: N4): Maps to "to break (snap); to bend; to fold; to turn (a corner)" and is used when This is an intransitive verb meaning something breaks.
- 息抜き (いきぬき (ikinuki) - Level: N2): Maps to "break; relaxation; a breather" and is used when Refers to taking a break from work or study to refresh oneself..
Context for "壊れる"
私のパソコンが壊れてしまいました。
My computer broke.
Context for "故障する"
私のパソコンが故障してしまいました。
My computer broke down.
Context for "折れる"
強風で木の枝が折れた。
The tree branch broke in the strong wind.
Context for "息抜き"
仕事の合間にコーヒーを飲んで息抜きをする。
I drink coffee and take a break during work.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
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" is correct here because it represents "to break (intransitive)" in the context: "My computer broke.".