लॉक ख़राब है

You can use this phrase as a complete sentence. Just point at the door and say लॉक ख़राब है. If you want to be more specific, you can add a noun at the start. For example, कमरे का लॉक ख़राब है (The room's lock is broken). It is very easy because the grammar doesn't change much. You are just stating a fact about an object.

Use it whenever you encounter a stubborn door. It is perfect for telling a landlord about a repair. Use it at a hotel if your key card fails. You can even use it for a broken suitcase zipper. If you are trying to enter a shop and the door is stuck, this is your go-to line. It saves you from awkward pulling and pushing!

Do not use this if a door is simply locked. If you just need the key, say ताला लगा है (It is locked). ख़राब implies it needs a mechanic or a locksmith. Also, don't use it for digital passwords usually. For those, people prefer saying the 'password is wrong.' It is strictly for physical, mechanical locks.

In India, locks are a big deal for security. You will see heavy brass padlocks on many old doors. Because of the dust and humidity, locks often get jammed. People often try to fix them with a drop of mustard oil first! Calling a 'Mistri' (handyman) is the next step. This phrase is the start of many neighborhood conversations about home maintenance.

You might hear ताला टूट गया है (The padlock is broken). This is more specific to padlocks. Some people use the English word 'lock' as used here. Others use the Hindi word ताला (Taala). You can also say लॉक काम नहीं कर रहा (The lock is not working). Both are perfectly fine for daily life.