adjective

rotto

broken

Definition & meaning

Rotto means broken, damaged, or torn, depending on the context. It can describe an object that no longer works, a damaged part, or a tear in clothing.

Figuratively, it can also mean broken off or interrupted, as in a relationship or agreement.

Grammar & Word origin

Rotto is the past participle of rompere (“to break”). It is also used as an adjective, agreeing in gender and number with the noun it describes:

  • Masculine singular: rotto
  • Feminine singular: rotta
  • Masculine plural: rotti
  • Feminine plural: rotte

The verb rompere comes from Latin rumpere, meaning “to break.”

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • danneggiato — “damaged”; it does not necessarily mean completely broken.
  • guasto — “out of order”; especially used for machines or devices.
  • spezzato — “snapped” or “broken into pieces.”

Antonyms:

  • intero — “whole,” with no pieces missing.
  • intatto — “intact” or “undamaged.”
  • funzionante — “working,” especially for a device.

Common phrases & collocations

  • vetro rotto — broken glass
  • telefono rotto — a broken phone
  • cuore rotto — a broken heart
  • avere le scatole rotte — to be fed up, in informal speech

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Examples

Il mio telefono è rotto.adjective

My phone is broken.

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