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كَسْر — meaning in English: broke down

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Guess the translation for breaking
مَأْساة، مَآسٍ/المَآسي
مُتَزَوِّج
تَطَرَّقَ
كَسْر
شَيْخة
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers use the word كَسْر in contexts where something is physically broken or damaged. For instance, one might say كَسْر when discussing a broken appliance in a casual conversation or describing a car accident. It can also be used in a more abstract sense, such as expressing emotional distress or disappointment.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'تحطيم' (taḥṭīm), which means 'shattering' or 'smashing.' While كَسْر implies a break that may or may not render something completely unusable, تحطيم suggests a more violent or complete destruction. Use كَسْر when referring to a minor break or damage, and تحطيم for more severe cases.
Culture
The word كَسْر comes from the root ك-س-ر, which conveys the idea of breaking or shattering. This root is prevalent in Arabic and has many derivatives. Interestingly, كَسْر is not just limited to physical things; it can also refer to breaking social norms or expectations, making it a versatile part of the language.
FAQ
Q.What does كَسْر mean in English?
كَسْر translates to 'broke down' in English, referring to something that has been damaged or rendered unusable.
Q.How is كَسْر used in a sentence?
You might say, 'السيارة كُسِرَت في الحادث' (The car broke down in the accident) to illustrate its practical usage.
Q.Are there any common mistakes with كَسْر?
A common mistake is confusing كَسْر with other similar words. Ensure you understand the context, as كَسْر is often used in more neutral situations compared to terms like تحطيم which imply total destruction.
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