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Brokenly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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brokenly

[ˈbroʊ.kən.li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

manner of speaking

Brokenly refers to the manner in which something is expressed or communicated in a way that is fragmented or not whole. This term is often used to describe speech that is interrupted, hesitant, or lacking fluency.

Synonyms

fragmentedly, haltingly, incompletely.

Examples of usage

  • He spoke brokenly, struggling to find the right words.
  • She told the story brokenly, stopping frequently to collect her thoughts.
  • The child explained the situation brokenly, using simple words.
  • He could only respond brokenly, his emotions overwhelming him.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Writers often use 'brokenly' to describe characters expressing vulnerability, enhancing emotional depth.
  • Many poets use broken language to evoke feelings of loss or disconnection, creating stark imagery in their verses.
  • Famous stories, like those by Ernest Hemingway, emphasize brokenness in relationships, often using adverbs like 'brokenly' to convey complexity.

Psychology

  • Research shows that expressing emotions in a 'broken' manner can help individuals process trauma.
  • Feelings of brokenness can be linked to mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
  • The act of speaking brokenly can indicate distress, as psychological studies reveal non-verbal cues are significant in understanding emotional states.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often use the term 'brokenly' to express heartbreak, resonating with listeners who have felt similar emotions.
  • Movies portray characters speaking brokenly to vividly depict their emotional struggles and connect with viewers on a deeper level.
  • TV dramas frequently use broken dialogue to signify tension or conflict in relationships, heightening the narrative's impact.

Origin of 'brokenly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word is formed from 'broken', which comes from the Old English word 'brocen', meaning to shatter or fracture.
  • Adding the suffix '-ly' typically turns an adjective into an adverb, indicating manner or style of action.
  • The use of 'broken' in language often reflects emotional states, implying something that is no longer whole.

The term 'brokenly' is derived from the adjective 'broken', which has its roots as a past participle of the verb 'break'. The Old English word 'brecan' meant to shatter, destroy, or separate into parts. Over time, 'broken' evolved to describe something that is damaged or not functioning properly. Adding the adverbial suffix '-ly' transforms the adjective into an adverb, indicating the manner of an action. Thus, 'brokenly' conveys that something is happening in a broken or fragmented manner. This use reflects a broader linguistic phenomenon in English where adverbs are frequently formed by adding '-ly' to adjectives, allowing for greater specificity in describing how actions are performed.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,535 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.