Shattered: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.