Have you ever found yourself needing to describe something that's broken in Spanish? Whether you're dealing with a broken appliance, a broken heart, or just trying to express that something isn't working quite right, knowing the correct Spanish translation is super useful. In this guide, we'll explore the various ways to say "broken" in Spanish, complete with examples and nuances, so you can communicate effectively in any situation. Let's dive in, guys!

Common Translations of "Broken" in Spanish

1. Roto/Rota

Roto (masculine) and rota (feminine) are the most common and versatile translations for "broken" in Spanish. These words are typically used as adjectives to describe something that is physically broken or damaged. It’s important to remember to match the gender of the adjective with the noun it modifies. For example:

• El vaso está roto. (The glass is broken.)
• La silla está rota. (The chair is broken.)

Roto/rota can be used in a wide range of contexts, from household items to more abstract concepts. You can also use it with the verb "estar" (to be) to indicate the state of being broken. Here are a few more examples:

• El juguete está roto. (The toy is broken.)
• Mi teléfono está roto. (My phone is broken.)
• La ventana está rota. (The window is broken.)

This is your go-to translation for most situations where you want to convey that something is physically broken. It’s simple, direct, and widely understood across different Spanish-speaking regions.

2. Quebrado/Quebrada

Quebrado (masculine) and quebrada (feminine) are other options for saying "broken," often implying that something is shattered or fractured. While similar to roto/rota, quebrado/quebrada often suggests a more forceful or complete break. Again, make sure to match the gender with the noun:

• El espejo está quebrado. (The mirror is broken/shattered.)
• La rama está quebrada. (The branch is broken/snapped.)

Quebrado is particularly useful when describing something that has been forcefully broken into pieces. It can also be used metaphorically in some contexts, though less commonly than roto. For example:

• Su voz estaba quebrada por la emoción. (His voice was broken with emotion.)

3. Averiado/Averiada

Averiado (masculine) and averiada (feminine) are used to describe something that is broken in the sense of being out of order or malfunctioning, especially when referring to machinery or equipment. Think of it as similar to saying something is "out of service" or "not working." For instance:

• El coche está averiado. (The car is broken/out of order.)
• La lavadora está averiada. (The washing machine is broken/not working.)

This term is incredibly useful when dealing with technical issues. If you're trying to explain that your computer, your car, or any other device isn't functioning properly, averiado is the word you'll want to use:

• El ordenador está averiado. (The computer is broken.)
• La impresora está averiada. (The printer is broken.)

4. Dañado/Dañada

Dañado (masculine) and dañada (feminine) mean "damaged." While not a direct translation of "broken," it’s often used to describe something that is broken or impaired. Dañado implies that something has suffered harm, which may or may not render it completely unusable. Consider these examples:

• El producto está dañado. (The product is damaged.)
• La pared está dañada. (The wall is damaged.)

Using dañado can be helpful when you want to emphasize the fact that something has been harmed but is not necessarily completely broken. For instance, if a product has a scratch but is still functional, you might describe it as dañado rather than roto.

• El libro está dañado, pero se puede leer. (The book is damaged, but you can read it.)

Contextual Uses and Examples

To really nail down how to use these words, let’s look at some specific situations where you might need to say “broken” in Spanish.

Describing Physical Objects

When talking about physical objects, roto and quebrado are your best bets. Here’s how to use them effectively:

• Roto:
  • El plato está roto. (The plate is broken.)
  • La ventana está rota. (The window is broken.)
  • El juguete está roto. (The toy is broken.)
• Quebrado:
  • El vidrio está quebrado. (The glass is broken/shattered.)
  • La rama del árbol está quebrada. (The tree branch is broken/snapped.)

Describing Mechanical Issues

For mechanical issues, averiado is the most appropriate term:

• El coche está averiado. (The car is broken/out of order.)
• La computadora está averiada. (The computer is broken/not working.)
• El ascensor está averiado. (The elevator is broken/out of service.)

Describing Abstract Concepts

Sometimes, you might want to use "broken" in a more metaphorical sense. In these cases, the choice of words can vary:

• Roto/a (for relationships or promises):
  • Mi corazón está roto. (My heart is broken.)
  • La promesa está rota. (The promise is broken.)
• Quebrado/a (for emotional states):
  • Su voz estaba quebrada por la tristeza. (Her voice was broken with sadness.)

Describing Something Damaged

When you want to describe something that is damaged, use dañado/dañada.

• El paquete llegó dañado. (The package arrived damaged.)
• La mercancía está dañada. (The merchandise is damaged.)

Regional Variations

Like any language, Spanish has regional variations. While roto/rota, quebrado/quebrada, averiado/averiada, and dañado/dañada are widely understood, some regions might prefer different terms or use them in slightly different contexts. For example, in some Latin American countries, you might hear other words depending on the specific object or situation. However, the terms we’ve covered are a solid foundation for communicating effectively in most Spanish-speaking areas.

Tips for Using "Broken" in Spanish

1. Pay attention to gender: Remember to match the gender of the adjective (roto/rota, quebrado/quebrada, averiado/averiada, dañado/dañada) with the noun it describes.
2. Consider the context: Think about whether you’re describing a physical break, a mechanical issue, or a more abstract concept.
3. Listen to native speakers: Pay attention to how native Spanish speakers use these words in conversation. This will give you a better feel for the nuances and regional variations.
4. Practice, practice, practice: The best way to master these words is to use them in real-life conversations. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – that’s how you learn!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect Gender Agreement: One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong gender for the adjective. Always double-check whether the noun is masculine or feminine.
• Using the Wrong Word for the Context: Using averiado for a physically broken object or roto for a mechanical issue can sound odd. Make sure you’re using the right word for the situation.
• Over-reliance on One Term: While roto/rota is versatile, it’s good to have other options in your vocabulary. Varying your word choice will make your Spanish sound more natural and fluent.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide on how to say "broken" in Spanish. Whether you're dealing with something roto, quebrado, averiado, or dañado, knowing these terms will help you communicate more effectively. Remember to consider the context, pay attention to gender agreement, and practice as much as possible. Now go out there and confidently describe all the broken things you encounter in the Spanish-speaking world! You got this, guys!