Shattered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shattered

[ˈʃætərd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

emotions

Broken into many pieces or damaged very badly

Synonyms

broken, fragmented, smashed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shattered

Used when something is completely destroyed, often into many tiny pieces. Often implies emotional or psychological damage.

  • The vase was shattered into a thousand pieces
  • Her dreams were shattered when she didn't get the job
broken

Used when something is not working properly or is in a state of disrepair. Can also imply emotional hurt but less intense than 'shattered'.

  • The chair is broken and needs to be fixed
  • He felt broken after the breakup
smashed

Used when something is forcefully broken into pieces, often implying violence or a strong impact.

  • The window was smashed by a rock
  • He smashed the glass against the wall in a fit of rage
fragmented

Refers to something that is divided into separate parts, often used in more formal or technical contexts.

  • The company became fragmented after the merger
  • Her thoughts were fragmented during the stressful situation

Examples of usage

  • The news of his death left her shattered.
  • The glass fell to the floor and shattered into a thousand pieces.
Context #2 | Verb

actions

To break into many pieces or to damage very badly

Synonyms

break, crack, smash.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shattered

Use 'shattered' when something is broken into many small pieces, often with a sense of complete destruction. It is commonly used with materials like glass or ceramics.

  • The vase was shattered into a thousand pieces.
  • My phone screen is completely shattered.
break

Use 'break' as a general term for splitting or damaging something. It can be used for various objects and situations, including physical and non-physical breaks.

  • Be careful, you might break the glass.
  • I need a break from work.
smash

Use 'smash' to describe breaking something forcefully and often into many pieces. It conveys a sense of violence or intentional destruction.

  • The rock smashed the window.
  • He got angry and smashed the plate on the floor.
crack

Use 'crack' when describing a partial break or split that does not go all the way through. Often used with hard surfaces like walls or ceramics.

  • There is a crack in the ceiling.
  • I accidentally cracked the mirror.

Examples of usage

  • The vase shattered when it hit the ground.
  • The mirror shattered from the force of the impact.

Translations

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

Origin of 'shattered'

The word 'shattered' originated from the Middle English word 'schateren' which means to break into pieces. Over time, the word evolved to its current form 'shattered' in modern English. The concept of shattering has been present in human history for centuries, with the act of breaking into pieces symbolizing destruction and irreparable damage.


See also: shattering.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,848 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.