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B1 Adjective #22 よく出る 12分で読める

busted

上位22

練習する例文メモとヒント busted 30秒で

解説 busted in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should know that 'busted' is a word people use when something is broken. If your toy does not work, you can say 'My toy is busted.' It is a simple way to say 'not working.' You might also hear it in cartoons when a character gets into trouble. If a mother finds her son eating cookies before dinner, she might say 'Busted!' It is a fun, short word to learn. You don't need to use it in your writing yet, but it is good to understand when you hear it in movies or songs. Just remember: busted means broken or in trouble. It is very informal, so use it with your friends and family, not with your teacher in a formal way. For example, if your pencil breaks, you can say 'My pencil is busted.' If your friend sees you hiding a secret, they might say 'Busted!' to you. It's a very common word in American English that children learn early on.

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At the A2 level, you can start using 'busted' in your daily conversations. You should understand that it has two main jobs. First, it describes things that are broken, like a 'busted window' or a 'busted phone.' It's a bit more casual than saying 'broken.' Second, it's used when someone is caught doing something they should not be doing. You will often hear the phrase 'get busted.' For example, 'He got busted for eating in class.' This means the teacher saw him and he is now in trouble. You should also know that 'busted' is an adjective. You can use it after words like 'is' or 'got.' It's important to know that this word is informal. You would use it when talking to friends about a broken bike or a funny story about getting caught. Don't use it in your English exams unless you are writing a story with dialogue between friends. It's a very expressive word that adds a bit of personality to your English.

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As a B1 learner, you should be comfortable using 'busted' in a variety of informal contexts. You understand that it's the past participle of 'bust' used as an adjective. You should be able to distinguish between its physical meaning (broken) and its social meaning (caught). You might also encounter it in phrasal forms like 'busted up' (meaning badly damaged or injured). At this level, you should notice how 'busted' is used in media, such as news headlines about police 'busting' a crime ring, which leads to the suspects being 'busted.' You should also be aware of the register; 'busted' is perfect for casual conversation but should be replaced by 'broken,' 'damaged,' or 'apprehended' in more formal settings. You can use it to describe a situation where a plan has failed, like a 'busted deal.' It's a versatile word that helps you sound more like a native speaker when you're talking about everyday mishaps or being caught in a lie. You should also be able to use it in the passive voice: 'The window was busted by the ball.'

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'busted.' You know it's not just for broken toys or naughty children; it's used in sports (a 'busted play'), in finance (a 'busted IPO'), and in investigative contexts (a 'busted myth'). You should be able to use it idiomatically, such as 'busted wide open' to describe a major revelation. You should also be aware of its slang usage regarding appearance, though you should use this very carefully as it can be insulting. You understand the grammatical flexibility of the word and how it can function as an adjective or a past participle. You should also be able to recognize related terms like 'blockbuster' (a very successful movie) and see the linguistic connection. At this level, you should be able to choose between 'busted' and its more formal synonyms based on the audience and the purpose of your communication. You might also use it to describe physical injuries in a casual way, like 'a busted knee' from playing soccer. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's punchy, informal energy.

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At the C1 level, you should master the subtle connotations of 'busted.' You understand that 'busted' often implies a sense of suddenness or violence in its 'broken' sense, and a sense of definitive exposure in its 'caught' sense. You can use it to add color to your speech, perhaps using it ironically or for emphasis. You should be familiar with its use in various dialects and how it might be replaced by 'knackered' in British English or 'munted' in New Zealand English. You should also understand its role in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and how those uses have filtered into general slang. You can analyze why a writer might choose 'busted' over 'apprehended' to create a specific tone or to characterize a speaker. You should also be aware of more obscure uses, like a 'busted flush' (someone who was once successful but is now a failure). Your ability to use 'busted' should be effortless, knowing exactly when it will enhance your message and when it will detract from it. You can use it to describe complex systems, like a 'busted economy' or a 'busted political system,' to convey a strong sense of failure.

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At the C2 level, you have a complete command of 'busted' and its place in the English lexicon. You understand its etymology, coming from 'burst,' and how it has diverged to become its own distinct word with unique meanings. You can use it with precision in any context, from the most casual slang to sophisticated metaphorical usage. You are aware of the legal and social implications of being 'busted' and can discuss the word's impact in media and culture. You can use it in complex grammatical structures and idiomatic expressions without hesitation. You might use it to describe the failure of a complex theory or the exposure of a deep-seated social injustice ('The myth of meritocracy was busted by the new data'). You understand the rhythmic and phonetic qualities of the word—its hard 'b' and 't' sounds—and how they contribute to its forceful meaning. Your mastery allows you to play with the word, perhaps using it in puns or creative writing to evoke a specific atmosphere. You are a sophisticated user who knows that 'busted' is more than just a synonym for 'broken'; it's a word that carries the weight of discovery, failure, and the messy reality of life.

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練習する例文メモとヒント

busted 30秒で

Informal word for broken or non-functional objects.
Commonly used when someone is caught breaking a rule.
Frequently used in the phrase 'get busted' for arrests.
Can describe physical injuries like a 'busted lip'.

The word busted is a versatile and highly common adjective in English, particularly in informal and semi-formal contexts. At its core, it carries two primary meanings that every learner must master to navigate daily conversations. The first meaning relates to being caught while doing something wrong, illegal, or against the rules. This usage is deeply rooted in the idea of a 'bust' or a police raid, but it has evolved to cover everything from a child sneaking a cookie to a major criminal being apprehended. When you are busted, the secret is out, and the consequences are usually imminent. The second primary meaning refers to something that is physically broken, damaged, or completely non-functional. This can apply to anything from a smartphone with a shattered screen to a complex mechanical system in a car. In this context, it is often used as a more casual alternative to 'broken' or 'out of order.'

The 'Caught' Aspect: This refers to the moment an authority figure or an observer discovers someone's misdeed. It implies a sense of surprise and the end of a deception. For example, if a student is using their phone during an exam and the teacher sees them, that student is busted.

The teenager was busted by his parents for sneaking out at midnight.

The 'Broken' Aspect: In this sense, the word describes an object that no longer works. It suggests a state of disrepair that might be permanent or require significant effort to fix. If your laptop won't turn on after you spilled coffee on it, the laptop is busted.

I can't call you later because my phone's charging port is busted.

Beyond these two main definitions, 'busted' has also found a home in modern slang to describe someone's appearance. If someone says a person looks 'busted,' they are suggesting that the person looks unattractive, tired, or messy. This is a very informal and potentially offensive usage, so it should be handled with extreme caution. Furthermore, in the world of finance, a 'busted' deal or IPO refers to one that has failed or lost significant value. This wide range of applications makes 'busted' a high-frequency word that reflects the dynamic nature of the English language. Whether you are watching a police drama, fixing a leaky faucet, or chatting with friends about a failed plan, you are likely to encounter this word. Understanding the context is key: if a person is the subject, they are likely in trouble; if an object is the subject, it is likely broken.

The old washing machine finally busted after ten years of daily use.

Social Context: Using 'busted' often implies a level of familiarity. It is the language of the street, the home, and the playground. It carries a punchy, direct energy that more formal words lack.

You're busted! I saw you take the last piece of cake.

The police busted the illegal gambling ring after a six-month investigation.

Using 'busted' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as an adjective, though it often originates from the past participle of the verb 'to bust.' When you use it to mean 'caught,' it is frequently paired with the verb 'to get.' For example, 'He got busted' is much more common than 'He was busted,' although both are grammatically acceptable. The 'get' construction emphasizes the process of being caught. When using it to mean 'broken,' it typically follows a linking verb like 'is,' 'looks,' or 'seems.' Understanding these patterns will help you sound more natural and fluent in your English interactions.

Pattern 1: [Subject] + [get/be] + busted + [for + -ing/noun]: This is the standard way to describe someone being caught. Example: 'She got busted for speeding.' The 'for' phrase explains the reason for the trouble.

They got busted for trying to enter the concert without tickets.

Pattern 2: [Object] + [is/looks] + busted: Used for broken items. Example: 'The elevator is busted, so we have to take the stairs.' Here, it functions as a simple descriptive adjective.

That old radio looks busted, but it actually works perfectly.

Another interesting way to use 'busted' is in the phrase 'busted wide open.' This is used when a secret or a conspiracy is fully revealed to the public. It suggests a dramatic and complete exposure. For instance, 'The scandal was busted wide open by an anonymous whistleblower.' This usage combines the idea of 'breaking' a case with the idea of 'catching' the perpetrators. It is a powerful phrase often found in news headlines and investigative journalism. Additionally, 'busted' can be used as a standalone exclamation. If you see a friend doing something they shouldn't, you can simply point and say, 'Busted!' This is a quick, effective way to acknowledge that you've caught them in the act.

The corruption case was busted wide open after the leaked documents were published.

Pattern 3: [Person] + [looks] + busted: Slang usage for appearance. Example: 'I just woke up and I look totally busted.' This is self-deprecating and informal.

After the 12-hour flight, everyone on the plane looked a little busted.

He tried to lie about where he was, but his story was busted when his friend told the truth.

The word 'busted' is a staple of American pop culture and everyday speech. You will hear it in television shows, movies, music, and social media. One of the most famous examples is the TV show 'MythBusters,' where the hosts test urban legends and scientific rumors. If a myth is proven false, they declare it 'Busted.' This has cemented the word's association with debunking and revealing the truth. In police procedurals like 'Law & Order' or 'Cops,' the word is used constantly to describe the arrest of suspects. It carries a gritty, real-world feel that makes it perfect for crime-related media. In the music world, particularly in hip-hop and pop, 'busted' is often used to describe people who are 'fake' or whose lies have been exposed.

In Media and Entertainment: The show 'MythBusters' popularized the term for debunking. In 'Phineas and Ferb,' the character Candace is obsessed with getting her brothers 'busted' by their mother.

That myth about goldfishes' memory was officially busted on last night's episode.

In Everyday Life: You'll hear it in schools ('You're busted!'), in garages ('The alternator is busted'), and in offices ('The printer is busted again'). It is a go-to word for minor frustrations.

I was going to drive us there, but my car's radiator is busted.

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are also full of 'busted' content. 'Busted' challenges or 'getting busted' pranks are common video themes. In these contexts, the word is used to highlight the humor or the awkwardness of being caught in a lie or a silly situation. It's also used in 'glow-up' videos where people show a 'busted' (messy) version of themselves before showing a polished, glamorous version. This usage among Gen Z and Millennials has kept the word fresh and relevant. Whether it's a broken link on a website or a celebrity caught in a scandal, 'busted' is the word that captures the moment of failure or exposure perfectly. Its short, percussive sound also makes it very satisfying to say when you've finally caught someone in the act.

The influencer got busted for using a filter while claiming to be 'all natural.'

In Sports: A 'busted play' in American football refers to a play that didn't go as planned because of a mistake or a strong defense. It requires the players to improvise.

The quarterback turned a busted play into a 20-yard gain by running the ball himself.

The plumbing in the old house is completely busted and needs to be replaced.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'busted' is using it in the wrong register. Because it is highly informal, using it in a business report or a formal academic paper can make the writing seem unprofessional. For example, instead of writing 'The project was busted,' a more appropriate formal choice would be 'The project failed' or 'The project was terminated.' Another common error is confusing 'busted' with 'broken' in specific contexts. While they are often interchangeable, 'broken' is more general. You can have a 'broken heart,' but you wouldn't usually say a 'busted heart' unless you were being very poetic or slangy. 'Busted' often implies a more violent or sudden type of breaking.

Mistake: Overusing it in Formal Writing: Incorrect: 'The defendant was busted by the authorities.' Correct: 'The defendant was apprehended by the authorities.'

Don't say: 'My computer is busted' in a technical support ticket. Say: 'My computer is non-functional.'

Mistake: Confusing 'Busted' with 'Burst': 'Burst' is a verb meaning to break open suddenly (like a balloon). 'Busted' is the adjective/past participle. While related, they aren't always interchangeable. You 'burst' a bubble, but the bubble is then 'busted' (or just gone).

The pipe burst (verb) and now the basement is flooded because the plumbing is busted (adjective).

Learners also sometimes struggle with the 'appearance' slang. It is important to remember that calling someone 'busted' is an insult. It's not a neutral way to say someone looks tired. If you use it to describe a friend, make sure you have the kind of relationship where such teasing is acceptable. Another nuance is the difference between 'busted' and 'caught.' While they mean the same thing, 'busted' usually implies that there will be a punishment or a significant consequence. If you 'catch' someone looking at your diary, it's a moment of discovery. If they are 'busted' looking at your diary, it implies they are in trouble for it. Finally, avoid using 'busted' to describe people in a physical sense unless you mean they are injured (e.g., 'a busted lip'). Using it to mean 'broken' for a person can sound very strange.

He came home with a busted nose after the boxing match.

Mistake: Using it for People's Emotions: We don't usually say someone is 'emotionally busted.' We say they are 'broken' or 'devastated.' 'Busted' is almost always physical or related to being caught.

Her heart was broken (not busted) when her cat ran away.

The window was busted during the storm, letting the rain inside.

Depending on whether you mean 'caught' or 'broken,' there are many alternatives to 'busted' that can help you refine your meaning and adjust your level of formality. For the 'caught' meaning, synonyms range from the formal 'apprehended' to the informal 'nabbed.' For the 'broken' meaning, you might choose 'shattered,' 'malfunctioning,' or 'kaput.' Choosing the right word depends on the context and the specific type of failure or discovery you are describing. Below is a comparison of some of the most common alternatives and how they differ from 'busted.'

Busted vs. Broken: 'Broken' is the standard, neutral term. 'Busted' is more informal and often implies a more forceful or messy break. You'd say a 'broken promise,' but a 'busted lock.'

The broken vase was a family heirloom; the busted headlight was just an annoyance.

Busted vs. Caught: 'Caught' is neutral. 'Busted' implies trouble or an authority figure. You 'catch' a ball, but you 'get busted' for cheating.

I caught a glimpse of the sunset; he got busted by the security guard.

In more technical or formal settings, 'malfunctioning' or 'defective' are the preferred terms for 'busted' objects. If a product is 'defective,' it was made incorrectly. If it is 'busted,' it was likely damaged after it was made. For 'caught,' the legal term is 'apprehended' or 'detained.' Using these words in a police report or a news article provides a more objective and professional tone. In slang, 'exposed' is often used when someone's lies are revealed, which is very similar to being 'busted.' For example, 'The YouTuber was exposed for faking his videos.' This carries a similar weight to 'busted' but focuses more on the loss of reputation than the immediate act of being caught.

The suspect was apprehended shortly after the robbery took place.

Busted vs. Kaput: 'Kaput' is a very informal word (from German) meaning completely finished or broken beyond repair. It's even more casual than 'busted.'

My old laptop is finally kaput; it won't even turn on anymore.

The company's reputation was ruined (rather than busted) after the scandal.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The use of 'busted' to mean 'caught' was popularized by the US police and later by Hollywood crime movies. It is now one of the most recognizable Americanisms worldwide.

発音ガイド

UK /ˈbʌs.tɪd/

US /ˈbʌs.təd/

The stress is on the first syllable: BUS-ted.

韻が合う語

trusted adjusted dusted rusted crusted disgusted entrusted unadjusted

よくある間違い

Pronouncing it as one syllable (bust) instead of two.
Using a 'd' sound instead of 'id' at the end.
Confusing the vowel sound with 'boosted'.
Over-emphasizing the second syllable.
Dropping the 's' sound in the middle.

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to recognize in context.

ライティング 3/5

Requires knowledge of the correct register.

スピーキング 3/5

Common in speech, but must be used naturally.

リスニング 2/5

Very common in media and daily life.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

broken caught police wrong machine

次に学ぶ

apprehended malfunctioning defective debunked exposed

上級

busted flush blockbuster bust a move bust a gut mythbuster

知っておくべき文法

Passive Voice with 'Get'

He got busted (instead of 'He was busted').

Adjectives after Linking Verbs

The window looks busted.

Past Participles as Adjectives

A busted pipe caused the flood.

Prepositions after 'Busted'

Busted for [crime], Busted by [person].

Irregular Verb Forms

Bust (present), Busted (past/past participle).

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レベル別の例文

My toy car is busted.

Mon jouet est cassé.

Simple adjective use after 'is'.

Busted! I saw you!

Pris ! Je t'ai vu !

Used as a standalone exclamation.

The window is busted.

La fenêtre est cassée.

Describing an object.

Is your pen busted?

Ton stylo est cassé ?

Question form.

He is busted for the cookie.

Il est pris pour le biscuit.

Passive structure 'is busted for'.

My bike is busted.

Mon vélo est cassé.

Subject + is + busted.

The TV is busted.

La télé est cassée.

Describing a household item.

You are busted, Tom!

Tu es pris, Tom !

Direct address.

He got busted for cheating on the test.

Il s'est fait prendre à tricher à l'examen.

Using 'got busted' for being caught.

I can't use my phone; the screen is busted.

Je ne peux pas utiliser mon téléphone ; l'écran est cassé.

Explaining a reason with 'busted'.

The police busted the party because it was too loud.

La police a arrêté la fête parce qu'elle était trop bruyante.

Verb use: 'busted' as past tense of 'bust'.

My watch is busted, so I don't know the time.

Ma montre est cassée, donc je ne connais pas l'heure.

Connecting two ideas with 'so'.

She got busted by her mom for staying up late.

Elle s'est fait prendre par sa mère à rester debout tard.

Passive 'got busted by'.

The lock on the door is busted.

La serrure de la porte est cassée.

Noun phrase + is + busted.

We got busted trying to sneak into the cinema.

On s'est fait prendre en essayant de se faufiler au cinéma.

'got busted' + -ing verb.

Is the microwave busted again?

Le micro-ondes est encore cassé ?

Using 'again' to show a repeated problem.

The company was busted for polluting the river.

L'entreprise a été prise en train de polluer la rivière.

Passive voice with a formal subject.

I tried to fix the sink, but I think it's completely busted.

J'ai essayé de réparer l'évier, mais je pense qu'il est complètement cassé.

Using 'completely' as an intensifier.

He got busted with a fake ID at the club.

Il s'est fait prendre avec une fausse carte d'identité au club.

'got busted with' + noun.

The myth about the haunted house was finally busted.

Le mythe de la maison hantée a enfin été brisé.

Using 'busted' to mean debunked.

My old car is busted, so I'm looking for a new one.

Ma vieille voiture est cassée, donc j'en cherche une nouvelle.

Standard adjective use in a compound sentence.

They were busted for selling illegal goods online.

Ils ont été arrêtés pour avoir vendu des marchandises illégales en ligne.

Passive voice 'were busted for'.

The radiator is busted, and the house is freezing.

Le radiateur est cassé, et la maison est glaciale.

Describing a consequence of something being busted.

You're busted! I know you didn't do your homework.

Tu es pris ! Je sais que tu n'as pas fait tes devoirs.

Exclamatory use with a following explanation.

The drug ring was busted after a year-long undercover operation.

Le réseau de drogue a été démantelé après une opération d'infiltration d'un an.

Formal passive use in a crime context.

The quarterback had to scramble after the play was busted.

Le quart-arrière a dû s'échapper après que le jeu a été raté.

Sports terminology: 'busted play'.

The corruption scandal was busted wide open by the local newspaper.

Le scandale de corruption a été mis au grand jour par le journal local.

Idiomatic phrase 'busted wide open'.

I'm sorry I'm late; my alarm clock is busted and didn't go off.

Désolé d'être en retard ; mon réveil est cassé et n'a pas sonné.

Using 'busted' to explain a failure of a device.

He came home with a busted lip after the fight.

Il est rentré avec une lèvre fendue après la bagarre.

Describing a physical injury.

The investment turned out to be a busted flush.

L'investissement s'est avéré être un échec total.

Idiomatic use: 'busted flush'.

The hacker was busted by the FBI for breaking into the server.

Le hacker a été arrêté par le FBI pour s'être introduit dans le serveur.

Passive voice with an agent ('by the FBI').

That old bridge has been busted for years and is now dangerous.

Ce vieux pont est cassé depuis des années et est maintenant dangereux.

Present perfect 'has been busted'.

The whistleblower's testimony busted the corporate conspiracy wide open.

Le témoignage du lanceur d'alerte a fait éclater la conspiration d'entreprise au grand jour.

Active verb use for dramatic effect.

After the marathon, my legs felt completely busted.

Après le marathon, mes jambes étaient complètement finies.

Metaphorical use for extreme fatigue.

The IPO was a busted deal from the start due to poor market timing.

L'introduction en bourse était une affaire ratée dès le début en raison d'un mauvais timing du marché.

Business context: 'busted deal'.

He's a busted flush in the political world, with no influence left.

C'est un homme fini dans le monde politique, il n'a plus aucune influence.

Metaphorical idiom for a person.

The myth of the 'perfect family' was busted by the reality of their lives.

Le mythe de la 'famille parfaite' a été brisé par la réalité de leur vie.

Abstract use for debunking a concept.

The engine is busted beyond repair, so we'll need a new car.

Le moteur est cassé au-delà de toute réparation, nous aurons donc besoin d'une nouvelle voiture.

Phrase 'busted beyond repair'.

She got busted for insider trading and faces a heavy fine.

Elle s'est fait prendre pour délit d'initié et risque une lourde amende.

Serious legal context.

The old plumbing system is busted, causing leaks throughout the building.

Le vieux système de plomberie est cassé, provoquant des fuites dans tout le bâtiment.

Describing a systemic failure.

The investigation into the cartel's finances finally busted the operation.

L'enquête sur les finances du cartel a finalement démantelé l'opération.

High-level active verb use.

His reputation as a visionary was busted when his latest project failed spectacularly.

Sa réputation de visionnaire a été brisée lorsque son dernier projet a échoué de manière spectaculaire.

Abstract passive use.

The intricate web of lies was busted wide open by a single piece of evidence.

Le réseau complexe de mensonges a été mis au grand jour par une seule preuve.

Sophisticated metaphorical structure.

The old boiler is busted, leaving the entire apartment complex without heat.

La vieille chaudière est cassée, laissant tout le complexe d'appartements sans chauffage.

Describing a large-scale mechanical failure.

He was a busted flush, a shadow of the great leader he once was.

C'était un homme fini, l'ombre du grand leader qu'il était autrefois.

Literary use of the idiom 'busted flush'.

The myth of economic stability was busted by the sudden market crash.

Le mythe de la stabilité économique a été brisé par le krach boursier soudain.

Using 'busted' to describe the failure of a macro-concept.

The suspect's alibi was busted when the security footage was reviewed.

L'alibi du suspect a été brisé lorsque les images de vidéosurveillance ont été examinées.

Legal/investigative context.

The radiator is busted, and the coolant is leaking all over the driveway.

Le radiateur est cassé, et le liquide de refroidissement fuit partout dans l'allée.

Technical description of a failure.

よく使う組み合わせ

get busted

busted lip

busted window

busted wide open

busted play

busted flush

busted deal

completely busted

busted for

busted by

よく使うフレーズ

You're busted!

— A common exclamation used when you catch someone doing something wrong. It is direct and often playful.

Busted! I saw you taking the last cookie!

Busted up

— Used to describe something that is badly damaged or a person who is physically injured. It implies multiple injuries or breaks.

The car was all busted up after the accident.

Busted flat

— An informal way to say someone has absolutely no money left. It emphasizes the total lack of funds.

After the trip, I was busted flat.

Busted out

— To escape from a place, usually a prison or a restrictive situation. It implies a forceful exit.

The prisoners busted out of the jail last night.

Busted a move

— A slang phrase meaning to start dancing or to take action. It is often used in a positive, energetic way.

He busted a move on the dance floor.

Busted a gut

— To laugh very hard or to work extremely hard. It suggests a physical strain from the effort.

I busted a gut laughing at his jokes.

Busted a cap

— A very informal and aggressive slang term meaning to shoot a gun. It is often found in crime movies.

The movie character threatened to bust a cap.

Busted open

— To break something open forcefully or to reveal a secret completely. It implies a sudden disclosure.

The safe was busted open by the thieves.

Busted knuckle

— A common minor injury for mechanics or people working with tools. It happens when a tool slips.

I've got a busted knuckle from fixing the car.

Busted link

— In technology, a hyperlink that no longer works. It is a very common digital use of the word.

The website is full of busted links.

よく混同される語

busted vs burst

Burst is usually a verb meaning to explode or break open suddenly. Busted is the adjective/informal past tense.

busted vs broke

Broke usually means having no money. Busted can mean this too, but it's less common than meaning broken or caught.

busted vs broken

Broken is the formal and neutral version of busted when referring to objects.

慣用句と表現

"Busted flush"

— A person or thing that was once successful or promising but is now a failure. It comes from poker terminology.

The once-great company is now just a busted flush.

informal/journalistic

"Bust a gut"

— To make a huge effort or to laugh uncontrollably. It implies intense physical reaction.

I busted a gut trying to finish the project on time.

informal

"Bust someone's chops"

— To criticize, tease, or nag someone. It is often used between friends or in a workplace.

Stop busting my chops about being late!

slang

"Bust a move"

— To begin dancing or to take decisive action in a situation. It is energetic and positive.

The music started, and she decided to bust a move.

slang

"Bust out laughing"

— To suddenly start laughing very loudly. It suggests an uncontrollable burst of humor.

The whole class busted out laughing at the joke.

informal

"Bust the bank"

— To spend more money than one has or to win all the money at a gambling table. It implies a financial limit was reached.

Buying that car is going to bust the bank.

informal

"Bust a cap in"

— A slang term for shooting someone. It is highly informal and associated with street culture.

The lyrics mentioned busting a cap in his enemies.

slang

"Bust loose"

— To break free from a restraint or a boring situation. It implies a sense of liberation.

The dog busted loose from its leash.

informal

"Bust a rhyme"

— To perform a rap or to improvise poetry. It is specific to hip-hop culture.

He stood up and started to bust a rhyme.

slang

"Bust wide open"

— To reveal a secret or a conspiracy completely. It suggests a dramatic and public exposure.

The scandal was busted wide open by the whistleblower.

informal/journalistic

間違えやすい

busted vs boosted

Similar sound.

Boosted means increased or stolen (slang). Busted means broken or caught.

He boosted (stole) the car, but then he got busted (caught).

busted vs roasted

Similar ending sound.

Roasted means cooked in an oven or severely criticized (slang).

He got roasted by his friends after he got busted.

busted vs dusted

Similar sound.

Dusted means cleaned or defeated easily (slang).

He dusted the shelf before he realized it was busted.

busted vs rusted

Similar sound.

Rusted means covered in rust (oxidized metal).

The busted pipe was also rusted.

busted vs trusted

Similar sound.

Trusted means believed in or relied upon.

I trusted him, but then he got busted for lying.

文型パターン

My [object] is busted.

My pen is busted.

[Person] got busted for [verb-ing].

He got busted for lying.

The [object] was busted by [person/thing].

The window was busted by the wind.

It was a busted [noun].

It was a busted play.

The [abstract concept] was busted wide open.

The conspiracy was busted wide open.

He is a busted flush.

The former CEO is a busted flush.

I have a busted [body part].

I have a busted knee.

You are busted!

Busted! I saw you!

語族

名詞

bust (an arrest or a failure)

buster (someone who breaks or stops something, e.g., Ghostbuster)

動詞

bust (to break or to catch)

形容詞

busted (broken or caught)

busty (slang for having large breasts - use with caution)

使い方

frequency

Very high in American English.

よくある間違い

Using 'busted' in a formal report. → The equipment is non-functional.
'Busted' is too informal for professional or academic writing.
Saying 'I bust my phone' as an adjective. → My phone is busted.
'Busted' is the adjective form; 'bust' is the verb.
Pronouncing 'busted' as one syllable. → Bus-ted (two syllables).
The 'ed' must be pronounced because the root ends in 't'.
Using 'busted' for emotional feelings. → I am heartbroken.
'Busted' is for physical objects or being caught, not for deep emotions.
Confusing 'busted' with 'boosted'. → He got busted (caught).
'Boosted' means increased or stolen, which is very different.

ヒント

Use with 'Get'

When talking about being caught, 'get busted' sounds more natural than 'be busted' in most casual conversations.

Learn the Idioms

Idioms like 'bust a gut' or 'bust a move' will make you sound much more like a native speaker.

Be Careful with Appearance

Never tell someone they look 'busted' unless you are very close friends and joking around. It's an insult.

Two Syllables

Remember to pronounce the 'ed' clearly. It's not 'bust,' it's 'bus-ted.'

Dialogue Tool

Use 'busted' in your creative writing to make your characters sound more realistic and modern.

TV and Movies

Watch police dramas or reality shows to hear 'busted' used in its most common 'arrest' context.

MythBusters

Watch clips of the show 'MythBusters' to see how they use the word to mean 'proven false.'

Nabbed

If you want another cool informal word for 'caught,' try 'nabbed.' It works similarly to 'busted.'

The 'B' Connection

Associate 'Busted' with 'Broken' and 'Behind bars.' All three start with 'B'!

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of a BUS that has CRASHED. The BUS is BUSTED (broken). Now imagine the driver was speeding and got BUSTED (caught) by the police.

視覚的連想

Imagine a large red 'X' over a broken smartphone. Next to it, imagine a person behind bars looking surprised. Both are 'busted.'

Word Web

Broken Caught Arrested Damaged Exposed MythBusters Busted Lip Get Busted

チャレンジ

Try to use 'busted' in three different ways today: once for something broken, once for someone caught, and once in an idiom like 'bust a gut'.

語源

The word 'busted' is a variant of 'burst,' which comes from the Old English word 'berstan.' Over time, 'bust' emerged as a dialectal and later informal version of 'burst.' The transition from 'burst' to 'bust' happened in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in American English. The meaning 'to catch' or 'to arrest' developed in the early 20th century, likely from the idea of 'breaking' into a place to catch criminals.

元の意味： To break into pieces or to explode.

Germanic (Old English)

文化的な背景

Be careful using 'busted' to describe a person's appearance, as it is considered an insult. Avoid using it in formal legal or professional documents.

Widely used in the US, Canada, and Australia. In the UK, it's understood but 'broken' or 'caught' are more traditional.

The TV show 'MythBusters'. The song 'Busted' by Ray Charles. The movie 'Ghostbusters'.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

At Home

The toaster is busted.
You're busted for eating the cake!
The door handle is busted.
My computer is busted.

At School

He got busted for cheating.
The pencil sharpener is busted.
She got busted for being late.
The printer is busted again.

In the Car

The radio is busted.
He got busted for speeding.
The air conditioning is busted.
The headlight is busted.

In a Store

The elevator is busted.
He got busted for shoplifting.
The credit card machine is busted.
This item is busted.

With Friends

Busted! I saw that!
My phone is totally busted.
He got busted by his girlfriend.
That plan is busted.

会話のきっかけ

"Have you ever gotten busted for something you didn't do?"

"What's the most expensive thing you've ever accidentally busted?"

"Do you remember a time you got busted by your parents as a kid?"

"Is there anything in your house that is currently busted?"

"What would you do if you got busted for a crime you committed?"

日記のテーマ

Write about a time you got busted for breaking a rule. How did you feel?

Describe a 'busted' object that you own. Why haven't you fixed it yet?

If you were a 'MythBuster,' what common myth would you want to prove is busted?

Write a story about a character who gets busted for a secret they were keeping.

Discuss the pros and cons of using informal words like 'busted' in your daily life.

よくある質問

10 問

No, 'busted' is not a swear word or profanity. It is an informal word that is safe to use in most casual situations. However, using it to describe someone's appearance can be rude.

It's best to avoid it. Use 'broken,' 'out of order,' or 'non-functional' instead. 'Busted' is too informal for professional communication.

It means that a secret, a crime, or a conspiracy has been completely revealed to the public. For example, 'The scandal was busted wide open by the news.'

Yes, they are very similar. 'Busted' is more informal and often implies a more forceful or messy break. You can use 'broken' in any situation, but 'busted' is only for casual ones.

A 'busted lip' is a common way to describe a lip that is cut or swollen, usually from being hit. It is a very common physical use of the word.

Yes, in informal English, 'busted' is often used to mean someone was arrested by the police. For example, 'He got busted for drug possession.'

It's an idiom for someone who was once successful but is now a failure. It comes from a poker hand that didn't work out.

It is pronounced as a separate syllable: /ɪd/. So the word has two syllables: BUS-ted.

Yes, that is a very natural and common way to say you broke your phone in informal English.

Yes, it is understood and used, but British speakers might use 'knackered' or 'broken' more often for objects, and 'nicked' or 'caught' for being arrested.

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