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Breakable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’”
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breakable

[หˆbreษชkษ™bษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

fragile

Capable of being broken or damaged easily.

Synonyms

brittle, easily broken, fragile, frangible.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
breakable

Use this word to describe objects or materials that can be broken with effort but are not necessarily delicate. It is a general term.

  • Glass is breakable but not always fragile.
  • This toy is breakable, so handle it with care.
fragile

Use this word to indicate that something is very delicate and needs careful handling. It often has a more emotional or aesthetic connotation.

  • Handle the fragile antique vase with care.
  • This package is marked as fragile.
easily broken

This phrase is suitable when emphasizing the ease with which something can break. It is straightforward and clear.

  • The vase is easily broken, so put it somewhere safe.
  • Easily broken items should be packed carefully.
frangible

This term is often used in technical or specialized contexts to describe materials designed to break or shatter under certain conditions, usually to ensure safety.

  • Frangible bullets are designed to break upon impact.
  • Frangible glass is used in emergency exits.
brittle

This word refers to substances that easily break, snap, or shatter under stress. It conveys that the material lacks flexibility.

  • The brittle ice cracked under the weight.
  • The plastic became brittle over time.

Examples of usage

  • This vase is very breakable, so please handle it with care.
  • The glass windows in the old house are quite breakable.
  • The toy is made of breakable plastic material.
  • Be careful with the breakable items in this box.
  • She wrapped the breakable items in bubble wrap for protection.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Physics

  • Breakable items often have low tensile strength, meaning they can't withstand much pulling or pressure.
  • The behavior of materials when stress is applied is studied in mechanics and materials science.
  • Ceramics and glass are typical examples of materials that are breakable under impact.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, certain breakable objects symbolize vulnerability and the need for care.
  • In art, breakable materials like glass can represent fragility of life or beauty.
  • Crockery, often used in rituals, can serve as a reminder of delicacy in traditions around food sharing.

Safety

  • Breakable items are often labeled with warnings to prevent accidents, especially in homes with children.
  • Packaging for fragile goods is designed to ensure items do not break during transport.
  • Many safety regulations focus on reducing risks associated with products that are easily breakable.

Psychology

  • Perceptions of breakability can affect how we interact with our belongings and environment.
  • People often project emotions onto delicate objects, attributing feelings of sadness or nostalgia.
  • The fear of breaking something may lead to anxiety, especially in high-stakes situations, such as at fragile art exhibitions.

Origin of 'breakable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'brecan', meaning to shatter or break.
  • It combines 'break' with the suffix '-able', which means 'capable of being'.
  • The concept emphasizes the fragility associated with certain materials and objects.

The word 'breakable' originated from the verb 'break' with the suffix '-able' added to it. The concept of breakable items has been present throughout human history, as people have always been aware of the fragility of certain materials. The term has been used in English language since the early 19th century to describe objects that are easily broken or damaged.

See also: break, breakaway, breakdown, breakdowns, breaker, breaking, breakthrough, breakthroughs, breakup, outbreak, unbreakable, unbroken.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,956 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.