brokenness
/ˈbrəʊ.kən.nəs/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈbroʊ.kən.nəs/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈbrō-kə(n)-nəs How to pronounce brokenness (audio)/ (ame, mw)
brokenness — noun
1. the state of being so damaged that a thing no longer works or carries on as it s
the state of being so damaged that a thing no longer works or carries on as it should
The old printer's brokenness was obvious when smoke came out again.
brokenness of a machine
Years of rain exposed the bridge's brokenness to everyone in the village.
The cracked screen and dead keys showed the laptop's brokenness at once.
After the storm, workers measured the brokenness of the roof before repairs began.
- damage
is broader and can describe harm without focusing on the resulting state
- disrepair
often suggests poor condition caused by neglect over time
- dysfunction
stresses failure to work properly, especially in systems or organizations
- soundness
suggests a condition that is solid and working properly
文法句型
the brokenness of a machine
the brokenness of a building
show signs of brokenness
用法筆記
Usually describes the condition of a machine, system, building, or other thing after damage. It is more formal and abstract than simply saying something is broken.
常見錯誤
2. a state of deep emotional hurt that keeps someone from living in a steady, healt
a state of deep emotional hurt that keeps someone from living in a steady, healthy way
After the divorce, Shirin spoke openly about the brokenness she still carried.
carry brokenness after a loss
The poem gives voice to a teenager's brokenness after years of bullying.
Talking with a counselor helped Pedro face his brokenness instead of hiding it from friends.
Maeve's quiet smile hid the brokenness left by months of hospital visits.
- heartbreak
usually points more directly to sorrow from love or loss
- pain
is much broader and can be physical as well as emotional
- woundedness
sounds more literary and often stresses vulnerability
- wholeness
suggests an inner state of healing, completeness, or peace
文法句型
carry brokenness after a loss
face your brokenness
a sense of brokenness
用法筆記
Often appears in reflective, religious, or counseling contexts rather than casual conversation. It points to a lasting inner condition, not a brief moment of sadness.