adjectiveadverb

kaputt

broken

Es bedeutet, dass etwas nicht mehr funktioniert, zerbrochen oder beschädigt ist.

The German word "kaputt" is an adjective that means "broken" or "destroyed". It can describe objects that are not functioning properly or are damaged, and it can also describe a person who is extremely tired or exhausted.

Words with similar meanings include:

  • "zerbrochen" (broken into pieces)
  • "beschädigt" (damaged)
  • "defekt" (defective)
  • "zerstört" (destroyed)

Differences:

  • "Zerbrochen" specifically refers to something that is broken into pieces, which implies a form of physical shattering.
  • "Beschädigt" is less severe than "kaputt" and often means something that has been damaged but might still function to some extent.
  • "Defekt" implies a malfunction, typically referring to something technical or mechanical.
  • "Zerstört" suggests something has been completely destroyed or ruined, often beyond repair.

"Kaputt" is a more colloquial term and broadly applicable, fitting various contexts where something is non-functional or someone is exhausted.

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Examples

Der Stuhl ist kaputt.adjective

The chair is broken.

Mein Fahrrad ist kaputt.adjective

My bicycle is broken.

Sein Fahrrad ist kaputt.adjective

His bicycle is broken.

Hast du den kaputten Computer gestern repariert?adjective

Did you repair the broken computer yesterday?

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