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टूटा हुआ

A2 adjective #3,000 most common 8 min read

टूटा हुआ

toota hua Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips टूटा हुआ in 30 Seconds

Explanation टूटा हुआ in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'टूटा हुआ' (ṭūṭā huā) is a descriptive word used for everyday objects. It is one of the first adjectives you learn to describe the physical state of things around you. At this stage, learners focus on the basic meaning: 'broken'. You use it to tell someone that a cup, a toy, or a pencil is not whole anymore. The most important thing for an A1 learner is to notice how the ending changes: 'ṭūṭā' for boys/masculine things and 'ṭūṭī' for girls/feminine things. For example, if you see a broken toy, you say 'ṭūṭā huā khilaunā'. If you see a broken pencil, you say 'ṭūṭī huī pencil'. It is a very useful word for simple communication, like when you want to explain why you cannot use something. You might say 'यह पेन टूटा हुआ है' (This pen is broken). At this level, don't worry too much about the 'huā' part; just remember the whole phrase as a single unit meaning 'broken'. It helps you interact with your environment and express simple problems to others. You will also hear it in very simple stories or when people are talking about their belongings. It is a 'building block' word that helps you start forming more complex descriptions later on.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'टूटा हुआ' (ṭūṭā huā) more accurately by following gender and number rules more strictly. You also start to see it in slightly more complex sentences, such as those involving postpositions. For instance, you learn that 'ṭūṭā huā' becomes 'ṭūṭe hue' when followed by words like 'mein' (in) or 'se' (from). A2 learners should be able to describe a scene with multiple broken items, using the plural form 'टूटे हुए' (ṭūṭe hue). You also start to encounter the word in emotional contexts, particularly in songs or simple conversations about feelings, like 'ṭūṭā huā dil' (broken heart). You begin to distinguish between physical damage ('ṭūṭā huā') and functional damage ('kharāb'). For example, you would know to use 'ṭūṭā huā' for a cracked phone screen but 'kharāb' for a phone that won't turn on. This level is about refining your usage and ensuring that your adjectives match your nouns perfectly. You might also start using it to describe parts of the body, like a broken arm or leg, which is very practical for basic medical needs or reporting an accident. It becomes a tool for more detailed storytelling and practical daily interaction.

At the B1 level, you use 'टूटा हुआ' (ṭūṭā huā) with more nuance and in a wider variety of contexts, including abstract and figurative meanings. You move beyond just describing broken objects to describing broken systems, broken promises, or 'broken' language. A B1 learner understands the difference between the simple past 'ṭūṭā' (broke) and the adjectival state 'ṭūṭā huā' (is broken). You might use it to describe a person's state of mind after a setback: 'वह अपनी हार के बाद टूटा हुआ महसूस कर रहा है' (He is feeling broken after his defeat). You also become familiar with common idioms and phrases, such as 'टूटी-फूटी हिंदी' (broken Hindi). At this level, you can participate in discussions about social issues where you might describe 'टूटी हुई व्यवस्था' (a broken system). Your grammar should be quite stable, handling the oblique cases and plural forms effortlessly. You also begin to recognize synonyms like 'khaṇḍit' or 'chaknāchūr' and understand when to use 'ṭūṭā huā' versus these more specific terms. This level marks the transition from literal description to expressive and metaphorical language usage.

At the B2 level, 'टूटा हुआ' (ṭūṭā huā) is used with full grammatical precision and stylistic flair. You can use it in complex literary or journalistic contexts. For example, you might describe a 'broken' political alliance or a 'broken' historical lineage. B2 learners are comfortable using the word in passive constructions and understand the subtle difference between 'ṭūṭā huā' (something that broke itself or is just in that state) and 'toṛā huā' (something that was intentionally broken by someone). You can appreciate the poetic use of the word in Hindi literature and Ghazals, where 'ṭūṭā huā' often symbolizes the fragmentation of the self or the world. You also know how to use the word to create atmosphere in writing, such as describing a 'broken' silence or a 'broken' ray of light. At this stage, you are expected to know the most appropriate synonym for every situation—whether it's the physical 'ṭūṭā huā', the functional 'kharāb', or the poetic 'vīrān' (desolate/broken). Your ability to use the word reflects a deep understanding of both Hindi grammar and cultural sentiment.

At the C1 level, your use of 'टूटा हुआ' (ṭūṭā huā) reflects a native-like grasp of its many layers. You can use it to engage in deep philosophical or sociological debates. For instance, you might discuss the 'broken' identity of diaspora communities or the 'broken' threads of a traditional craft. You understand the etymological roots and how the participle 'huā' functions to provide a 'stative' aspect to the verb, and you can manipulate this for specific rhetorical effects. In C1 writing, 'टूटा हुआ' might be used to describe the rhythmic 'brokenness' of a modern poem or the 'broken' logic of an argument. You are also fully aware of the regional variations and registers; you know when a formal Sanskritized word would be better and when the colloquial 'टूटा-फूटा' adds the right flavor. You can interpret and translate complex idioms involving 'ṭūṭnā' that describe everything from the breaking of a fast to the breaking of a fever. Your usage is not just correct; it is evocative and precise, showing a mastery over the emotional resonance that the word carries in the Hindi-speaking world.

At the C2 level, you possess a masterly command over 'टूटा हुआ' (ṭūṭā huā) and its entire semantic field. You can analyze its usage in classical Hindi literature, from the devotional poetry of Kabir to the modern novels of Premchand. You understand the subtle socio-linguistic implications of describing something as 'broken' in different Indian contexts—such as the 'broken' status of certain social structures or the 'broken' promises of post-colonial development. You can use the word to write sophisticated critiques, perhaps discussing the 'broken' narrative structure of a film or the 'broken' aesthetics of an art piece. Your mastery includes the ability to use the word with irony, sarcasm, or deep pathos. You are also an expert in the word's relationship with other verbs and how they combine to form complex ideas. At this level, the word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile tool for high-level intellectual expression, allowing you to capture the finest shades of meaning in the Hindi language, whether you are writing a formal dissertation, a piece of creative fiction, or engaging in high-level diplomatic or academic discourse.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

टूटा हुआ in 30 Seconds

Used to describe physical damage like cracks or snaps.
Must agree with the noun's gender (ṭūṭā/ṭūṭī/ṭūṭe).
Commonly used for emotional states like heartbreak.
Derived from the verb 'ṭūṭnā' (to break).

The Hindi term टूटा हुआ (ṭūṭā huā) is a fundamental adjective used to describe something that is in a state of being broken, damaged, or fractured. It is derived from the intransitive verb टूटना (ṭūṭnā), which means 'to break' or 'to snap'. In Hindi grammar, the addition of 'हुआ' (huā) transforms the past participle of the verb into a descriptive adjective that signifies a completed state. This is a crucial distinction for learners: while 'टूटा' (ṭūṭā) might simply mean 'broke' in a narrative sense, 'टूटा हुआ' (ṭūṭā huā) emphasizes the current condition of the object as it stands before you. This word is ubiquitous in daily life, covering everything from a shattered glass on the kitchen floor to a fractured bone in a medical context, and even extending into the deep metaphors of Hindi poetry and cinema.

Literal Usage: Used for physical objects like toys, furniture, glass, or electronic devices that have suffered structural damage. For example, a chair with a snapped leg is a 'टूटी हुई कुर्सी' (ṭūṭī huī kursī).
Emotional Usage: Commonly used to describe a 'broken heart' (टूटा हुआ दिल) or a 'broken spirit' (टूटा हुआ मन). It conveys a sense of profound sadness or loss of hope.
Abstract Usage: Can refer to 'broken language' (टूटी-फूटी भाषा), such as when someone is not fluent in a language, or 'broken promises' (टूटे हुए वादे).

फर्श पर एक टूटा हुआ गिलास पड़ा था। (A broken glass was lying on the floor.)

Understanding the inflection of this word is vital. Because it functions as an adjective, it must agree with the gender and number of the noun it modifies. If the noun is masculine singular (like 'glass' or 'dil'), it remains 'टूटा हुआ'. If the noun is feminine singular (like 'kursī' or 'chūṛī'), it becomes टूटी हुई (ṭūṭī huī). For masculine plural nouns (like 'khilaune'), it changes to टूटे हुए (ṭūṭe hue). This grammatical agility makes it one of the most flexible and necessary words in a beginner's vocabulary. Whether you are reporting a problem to a landlord, describing a scene in a story, or expressing your feelings, this word serves as a primary tool for indicating that something is no longer whole or functional.

उसका टूटा हुआ खिलौना देखकर मुझे बहुत दुख हुआ। (I felt very sad seeing his broken toy.)

Using टूटा हुआ (ṭūṭā huā) correctly requires attention to the noun it follows or precedes. In Hindi, adjectives usually precede the noun, but they can also follow it as a predicate adjective. The most important rule to remember is gender and number agreement. Let's break down the variations of this word across different sentence structures. In a simple descriptive sentence like 'The mirror is broken', you would say 'शीशा टूटा हुआ है' (Shīshā ṭūṭā huā hai). Here, 'shīshā' is masculine singular, so 'ṭūṭā huā' is used. If you were describing a broken window (khirki), which is feminine, the sentence becomes 'खिड़की टूटी हुई है' (Khiṛkī ṭūṭī huī hai).

Subject-Adjective Agreement: Masculine Singular: टूटा हुआ (ṭūṭā huā)
Feminine Singular: टूटी हुई (ṭūṭī huī)
Masculine Plural: टूटे हुए (ṭūṭe hue)
Feminine Plural: टूटी हुई (ṭūṭī huī - notice it stays same as singular or adds nasalization 'हुईं' depending on dialect/formality).

क्या आप इस टूटे हुए मेज़ को ठीक कर सकते हैं? (Can you fix this broken table?)

In the example above, 'meiz' (table) is masculine, but because of the postposition 'ko' (to), the adjective 'ṭūṭā huā' changes to its oblique form 'ṭūṭe hue'. This is an advanced point for A2 learners but essential for fluency. Whenever a noun is followed by a postposition (like ko, mein, se, par), the 'ā' ending of the adjective changes to 'e'. Thus, 'ṭūṭā huā' becomes 'ṭūṭe hue'. This applies even if the noun is singular. For example, 'in the broken glass' would be 'टूटे हुए गिलास में' (ṭūṭe hue gilās meim).

उसने टूटी हुई आवाज़ में अपनी कहानी सुनाई। (He told his story in a broken/quavering voice.)

Finally, consider the figurative use. When describing a person who is 'broken' by circumstances, 'टूटा हुआ' is used to imply they have lost their strength or resolve. 'वह अंदर से बिल्कुल टूटा हुआ है' (He is completely broken from inside). This demonstrates how the word transitions from physical damage to emotional state seamlessly in Hindi conversation.

You will encounter टूटा हुआ (ṭūṭā huā) in a wide variety of real-world scenarios in India. One of the most common places is the local marketplace or 'bazaar'. If you are buying fruits and one is damaged, or if you are looking at pottery and find a crack, the shopkeeper or you might say, 'यह तो टूटा हुआ है' (This one is broken). It is also frequently heard in repair shops. When you take a mobile phone with a cracked screen to a technician, they will refer to it as a 'टूटी हुई स्क्रीन' (ṭūṭī huī screen).

In the Household: Parents often use this word when scolding children for breaking toys or household items. 'देखो, तुमने यह भी तोड़ दिया! अब यह टूटा हुआ है।' (Look, you broke this too! Now it is broken.)
In Bollywood and Music: Hindi songs are famous for themes of heartbreak. Phrases like 'टूटा हुआ दिल' (broken heart) or 'टूटे हुए ख़्वाब' (broken dreams) appear in thousands of lyrics, conveying the melancholy of lost love.

डॉक्टर ने कहा कि मेरी हड्डी टूटी हुई नहीं है। (The doctor said that my bone is not broken.)

In a news or formal context, you might hear this word during reports of natural disasters or accidents. Reporters might describe 'टूटी हुई इमारतें' (broken/collapsed buildings) or 'टूटी हुई सड़कें' (broken roads) after an earthquake or heavy monsoon rains. In educational settings, a teacher might describe a student's 'टूटी-फूटी' (broken) grammar or handwriting if it lacks coherence. This versatility makes it a high-frequency word that bridges the gap between the mundane and the poetic.

रास्ते में बहुत सारे टूटे हुए पत्थर पड़े थे। (There were many broken stones lying on the path.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using टूटा हुआ (ṭūṭā huā) is ignoring gender agreement. In English, 'broken' is static; it doesn't matter if the object is masculine or feminine. In Hindi, saying 'टूटा हुआ कुर्सी' (ṭūṭā huā kursī) sounds very jarring to a native speaker because 'kursī' is feminine. You must say 'टूटी हुई कुर्सी'. Always identify the gender of the noun first.

Confusing 'ṭūṭā' with 'ṭūṭā huā': Learners often forget the 'huā' part. While 'ṭūṭā' can sometimes stand alone in informal speech, 'ṭūṭā huā' is the correct adjectival form to describe a state. 'ṭūṭā' alone often sounds like the past tense verb ('it broke') rather than the adjective ('it is broken').
Mixing up 'ṭūṭnā' and 'toṛnā': 'ṭūṭā huā' comes from 'ṭūṭnā' (to break on its own/intransitive). If you want to say something was 'broken by someone' (passive), you might use 'toṛā huā', but 'ṭūṭā huā' is the standard way to describe the state of being broken regardless of who did it.

Incorrect: यह टूटा हुआ खिड़की है।
Correct: यह टूटी हुई खिड़की है।

Another mistake is the oblique case. If you say 'He is sitting on a broken chair', you cannot say 'वह टूटा हुआ कुर्सी पर बैठा है'. Because of the postposition 'par', it must be 'वह टूटी हुई कुर्सी पर बैठा है'. If the noun were masculine, like 'palang' (bed), it would be 'वह टूटे हुए पलंग पर बैठा है'. Forgetting to change 'ṭūṭā' to 'ṭūṭe' before a postposition is a very common A2-B1 level error.

Finally, don't use 'ṭūṭā huā' for things that are 'out of order' but not physically broken. For a computer that won't turn on, 'kharāb' (bad/spoiled) is better. Use 'ṭūṭā huā' only if the computer is physically smashed.

While टूटा हुआ (ṭūṭā huā) is the most common way to say 'broken', Hindi offers several synonyms that carry different nuances. Choosing the right one can make your Hindi sound more natural and sophisticated. For instance, if something is completely shattered into tiny pieces, the word चकनाचूर (chaknāchūr) is much more expressive. If you're talking about an ancient ruin or a holy idol that has been damaged, the formal word खंडित (khaṇḍit) is preferred.

खराब (kharāb): Means 'bad', 'spoiled', or 'out of order'. Use this for machines, electronics, or food. A 'kharāb' phone might look perfect but doesn't work; a 'ṭūṭā huā' phone has a cracked screen.
खंडित (khaṇḍit): A formal/Sanskritized word used for statues, monuments, or laws. It implies a loss of sanctity or wholeness.
फटा हुआ (phaṭā huā): Specific to paper, cloth, or skin. You don't 'break' a shirt; you 'tear' it. So use 'phaṭā huā' for clothes or books.

एक्सीडेंट में कार चकनाचूर हो गई। (The car was completely smashed/shattered in the accident.)

In emotional contexts, you might hear आहत (āhat) which means 'hurt' or 'wounded', often used for feelings. While 'ṭūṭā huā dil' is common, 'āhat bhāvnāein' (hurt feelings) is more formal. For relationships that have ended, the word विच्छेद (vichhed) is used in formal Hindi, though in daily life, people just say 'rishta ṭūṭ gayā' (the relationship broke).

Understanding these alternatives allows you to be precise. For example, if you tell a tailor your pants are 'ṭūṭā huā', they might be confused. But if you say 'phaṭā huā', they will immediately know they need to sew a tear.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'टूटा हुआ' is a 'stative' construction. In many Indian languages, adding a form of 'to be' (huā/hoye/āhi) to a past participle is the standard way to describe a resulting state, a feature that distinguishes them from many European languages.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈtuːʈɑː ˈhʊɑː/

US /ˈtuːʈɑ ˈhuɑ/

Stress is evenly distributed, with a slight emphasis on the first syllable 'ṭū'.

Rhymes With

छूटा हुआ (chhūṭā huā) लूटा हुआ (lūṭā huā) रूठा हुआ (rūṭā huā) फूटा हुआ (phūṭā huā) झूठा (jhūṭhā) बूटा (būṭā) कूटा (kūṭā) खूँटा (khūmṭā)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ṭ' as a dental 't' (like in 'thin').
Shortening the long 'ū' to a short 'u'.
Ignoring the 'huā' part entirely.
Failing to inflect the ending for gender.
Nasalizing the 'ā' when it shouldn't be.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text once the root 'ṭūṭ' is known.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering gender and oblique case inflections.

Speaking 3/5

Retroflex 'ṭ' can be tricky for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Very common word, usually clear in speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

टूटना (ṭūṭnā) हुआ (huā) नहीं (nahīñ) है (hai) खिलौना (khilaunā)

Learn Next

खराब (kharāb) फटा हुआ (phaṭā huā) जोड़ना (joṛnā) मरम्मत (marammat) नया (nayā)

Advanced

खंडित (khaṇḍit) चकनाचूर (chaknāchūr) क्षतिग्रस्त (kshatigrast) जर्जर (jarjar) विच्छेद (vichhed)

Grammar to Know

Adjectival Participles

Past Participle + हुआ creates a stative adjective (e.g., सोया हुआ - asleep).

Gender/Number Agreement

Adjectives ending in 'ā' change to 'ī' for feminine and 'e' for masculine plural/oblique.

Oblique Case

Adjectives change 'ā' to 'e' before a noun followed by a postposition.

Intransitive vs Transitive

ṭūṭnā (to break/intransitive) vs toṛnā (to break/transitive).

Reduplication

ṭūṭā-fūṭā (reduplication for emphasis or variety of damage).

Examples by Level

यह खिलौना टूटा हुआ है।

This toy is broken.

Masculine singular: टूटा हुआ (ṭūṭā huā).

क्या यह कुर्सी टूटी हुई है?

Is this chair broken?

Feminine singular: टूटी हुई (ṭūṭī huī).

मेरे पास एक टूटा हुआ कप है।

I have a broken cup.

Adjective precedes the noun 'कप' (kap).

वहाँ टूटे हुए खिलौने हैं।

There are broken toys there.

Masculine plural: टूटे हुए (ṭūṭe hue).

यह पेंसिल टूटी हुई है।

This pencil is broken.

Feminine singular: टूटी हुई (ṭūṭī huī).

टूटा हुआ शीशा मत छुओ।

Don't touch the broken glass.

Imperative sentence with 'mat' (don't).

उसका फोन टूटा हुआ है।

His/her phone is broken.

Possessive 'uskā' matches 'phone' (masculine).

यह मेज़ टूटी हुई है।

This table is broken.

'Meiz' is often treated as feminine in some dialects, masculine in others.

मैंने सड़क पर एक टूटा हुआ गमला देखा।

I saw a broken flowerpot on the road.

Past tense 'dekhā' with direct object 'gamla'.

क्या आप इस टूटे हुए ताले को खोल सकते हैं?

Can you open this broken lock?

Oblique case: 'ṭūṭe hue' because of postposition 'ko'.

मेरी टूटी हुई साइकिल गैरेज में है।

My broken bicycle is in the garage.

Feminine singular: टूटी हुई (ṭūṭī huī).

उसने टूटे हुए दिल के साथ गाना गाया।

He sang the song with a broken heart.

Figurative use: 'ṭūṭe hue dil' (oblique case with 'ke sath').

इस टूटे हुए डिब्बे में क्या है?

What is in this broken box?

Oblique case: 'ṭūṭe hue' because of postposition 'mein'.

मेज पर कुछ टूटी हुई चूड़ियाँ थीं।

There were some broken bangles on the table.

Feminine plural: टूटी हुई (ṭūṭī huī).

वह एक टूटे हुए घर में रहता है।

He lives in a broken/dilapidated house.

Oblique case: 'ṭūṭe hue' because of postposition 'mein'.

सावधान! यहाँ टूटा हुआ काँच है।

Careful! There is broken glass here.

Kāñch (glass) is masculine singular.

वह बहुत टूटी-फूटी हिंदी बोलता है।

He speaks very broken Hindi.

Reduplicated form 'ṭūṭī-fūṭī' for languages.

भूकंप के बाद कई इमारतें टूटी हुई हालत में थीं।

After the earthquake, many buildings were in a broken state.

Complex noun phrase 'ṭūṭī huī hālat'.

यह एक टूटे हुए वादे की कहानी है।

This is a story of a broken promise.

Abstract usage: 'vādā' (promise) is masculine.

उसकी टूटी हुई उंगली पर पट्टी बंधी है।

There is a bandage on his broken finger.

Medical context: 'unglī' (finger) is feminine.

टूटे हुए सपनों को फिर से जोड़ना मुश्किल है।

It is difficult to reconnect broken dreams.

Metaphorical usage: 'sapne' (dreams) is masculine plural.

हमें इस टूटी हुई व्यवस्था को बदलना होगा।

We must change this broken system.

Political/Social context: 'vyavasthā' (system) is feminine.

क्या आपको टूटे हुए शीशे से डर लगता है?

Are you afraid of broken glass/mirrors?

Oblique case: 'ṭūṭe hue shīshe' with postposition 'se'.

उसने अपनी टूटी हुई उम्मीदों के बारे में बताया।

She told about her broken hopes.

Abstract usage: 'ummeed' (hope) is feminine.

लेखक ने समाज के टूटे हुए मूल्यों पर प्रकाश डाला है।

The author has highlighted the broken values of society.

Formal academic/literary register.

टूटी हुई आवाज़ में उसने अपनी बेगुनाही साबित करने की कोशिश की।

In a broken voice, he tried to prove his innocence.

Describing emotional distress through physical symptoms.

वह अपने टूटे हुए अतीत को पीछे छोड़कर आगे बढ़ना चाहता है।

He wants to leave his broken past behind and move forward.

Psychological/Emotional context.

फिल्म एक टूटे हुए परिवार के इर्द-गिर्द घूमती है।

The film revolves around a broken family.

Common cinematic theme/description.

पुराने मंदिर में कई टूटी हुई मूर्तियाँ मिलीं।

Many broken idols were found in the old temple.

Historical/Archaeological context.

टूटे हुए विश्वास को फिर से जीतना बहुत कठिन होता है।

Winning back broken trust is very difficult.

Philosophical/Relational context.

उसकी टूटी हुई चप्पलें उसकी गरीबी की कहानी बयां कर रही थीं।

His broken slippers were telling the story of his poverty.

Literary imagery: 'chappalein' is feminine plural.

शहर की टूटी हुई बिजली की लाइनों को ठीक किया जा रहा है।

The city's broken power lines are being repaired.

Infrastructure context.

यह उपन्यास आधुनिक जीवन की टूटी हुई कड़ियों को जोड़ता है।

This novel connects the broken links of modern life.

High literary style.

इतिहास के टूटे हुए पन्नों से हमें बहुत कुछ सीखने को मिलता है।

We get to learn a lot from the broken pages of history.

Metaphorical use of 'broken pages'.

उसकी बातों में एक टूटा हुआ तर्क साफ़ दिखाई दे रहा था।

A broken logic was clearly visible in his words.

Describing abstract concepts like logic (tark).

टूटे हुए रिश्तों का बोझ इंसान को अंदर से खोखला कर देता है।

The burden of broken relationships hollows a person from inside.

Deep psychological observation.

राजनीतिक गठबंधन की टूटी हुई नींव ने अस्थिरता पैदा कर दी।

The broken foundation of the political alliance created instability.

Political analysis register.

कलाकार ने टूटे हुए दर्पण के माध्यम से अपनी पहचान को दर्शाया है।

The artist has depicted his identity through a broken mirror.

Artistic critique register.

टूटी हुई परंपराओं के बीच नई संस्कृति का उदय हो रहा है।

A new culture is emerging amidst broken traditions.

Sociological register.

उसकी कविताएँ समाज के टूटे हुए वर्गों की आवाज़ हैं।

His poems are the voice of the broken sections of society.

Socially conscious literary register.

अस्तित्ववाद की जड़ें अक्सर मानवीय चेतना के टूटे हुए स्वरूप में मिलती हैं।

The roots of existentialism are often found in the broken form of human consciousness.

Philosophical academic register.

टूटे हुए समय के अंतराल में स्मृतियाँ धुंधली पड़ जाती हैं।

In the intervals of broken time, memories become blurred.

Abstract poetic/philosophical usage.

उनकी रचनाओं में टूटे हुए छंदों का प्रयोग एक विशिष्ट शिल्प है।

The use of broken meters in his works is a distinct craft.

Technical literary criticism.

वैश्वीकरण ने स्थानीय उद्योगों की टूटी हुई रीढ़ को और कमजोर कर दिया।

Globalization further weakened the broken backbone of local industries.

Economic/Political critique.

टूटे हुए मौन की गूँज शोर से कहीं अधिक प्रभावशाली होती है।

The echo of a broken silence is far more powerful than noise.

Paradoxical literary expression.

संस्कृति के टूटे हुए अवशेषों का संरक्षण हमारी नैतिक जिम्मेदारी है।

The preservation of the broken remains of culture is our moral responsibility.

Formal heritage conservation register.

लेखक ने नायक के टूटे हुए संकल्प को उसकी त्रासदी का कारण माना है।

The author considers the protagonist's broken resolve as the cause of his tragedy.

Literary analysis of character.

टूटे हुए शब्दों के माध्यम से वह अपनी अव्यक्त वेदना को व्यक्त कर रही थी।

Through broken words, she was expressing her unexpressed pain.

High-level emotional description.

Common Collocations

टूटा हुआ दिल

टूटा हुआ शीशा

टूटा हुआ खिलौना

टूटी हुई हड्डी

टूटा हुआ वादा

टूटी हुई आवाज़

टूटा हुआ सपना

टूटी हुई कुर्सी

टूटा हुआ तारा

टूटी हुई सड़क

Common Phrases

टूटी-फूटी हिंदी

— Broken or fragmented Hindi, usually spoken by a non-native speaker.

वह टूटी-फूटी हिंदी में बात करता है।

टूटा हुआ महसूस करना

— To feel broken, exhausted, or defeated emotionally.

आज मैं बहुत टूटा हुआ महसूस कर रहा हूँ।

टूटे हुए टुकड़े

— Broken pieces or shards of something.

फर्श पर शीशे के टूटे हुए टुकड़े पड़े थे।

टूटा-बिखरा

— Broken and scattered; in a state of disarray.

उसका सारा सामान टूटा-बिखरा पड़ा था।

साँसें टूटना

— Literally 'breaths breaking', an idiom for dying.

अस्पताल पहुँचते ही उसकी साँसें टूट गईं।

ताँता टूटना

— The breaking of a continuous line or sequence of people/things.

बारिश की वजह से मेहमानों का ताँता टूट गया।

हिम्मत टूटना

— To lose courage or hope.

मुश्किलों को देखकर उसकी हिम्मत टूट गई।

नींद टूटना

— To have one's sleep interrupted.

शोर की वजह से मेरी नींद टूट गई।

कसर टूटना

— To be compensated or for a deficiency to be removed.

बोनस मिलने से सारी कसर टूट गई।

दम टूटना

— To die or for something to give way under pressure.

पुरानी दीवार का दम टूट गया और वह गिर गई।

Often Confused With

टूटा हुआ vs खराब (kharāb)

Kharāb means out of order or spoiled. A phone that doesn't turn on is kharāb; a phone with a cracked screen is ṭūṭā huā.

टूटा हुआ vs फटा हुआ (phaṭā huā)

Phaṭā huā is used for tearing (paper/cloth). You don't 'break' a shirt, you 'tear' it.

टूटा हुआ vs बिखरा हुआ (bikhrā huā)

Bikhrā huā means scattered. Something broken might be scattered, but scattered things aren't always broken.

Idioms & Expressions

"दिल टूटना"

— To have one's heart broken; extreme sadness due to love or loss.

धोखा मिलने पर उसका दिल टूट गया।

Common

"कमर टूटना"

— To be financially ruined or to work extremely hard.

महंगाई ने आम आदमी की कमर तोड़ दी है।

Common

"घमंड टूटना"

— To have one's pride shattered.

हारने के बाद उसका घमंड टूट गया।

Neutral

"सबर का बाँध टूटना"

— To lose patience; for the 'dam of patience' to break.

आखिरकार उसके सबर का बाँध टूट गया और वह चिल्ला पड़ा।

Formal/Literary

"मिट्टी में मिल जाना"

— To be completely destroyed or broken down (lit. to mix with soil).

उसकी सारी मेहनत मिट्टी में मिल गई।

Informal

"चकनाचूर होना"

— To be shattered to pieces (physically or metaphorically).

उसका सपना चकनाचूर हो गया।

Common

"हवा निकल जाना"

— To lose confidence or energy (like a broken balloon).

सवाल पूछते ही उसकी हवा निकल गई।

Slang/Informal

"पहाड़ टूटना"

— To be hit by a massive calamity or disaster.

पिता की मृत्यु के बाद उस पर दुखों का पहाड़ टूट पड़ा।

Literary/Emphatic

"तारा टूटना"

— A shooting star (meteor), often associated with making a wish.

उसने टूटते हुए तारे को देखकर दुआ माँगी।

Common

"चूड़ियाँ टूटना"

— A cultural idiom for becoming a widow (breaking of bangles).

युद्ध में न जाने कितनी औरतों की चूड़ियाँ टूट गईं।

Cultural/Literary

Easily Confused

टूटा हुआ vs टूटा (ṭūṭā)

It looks the same as the adjective.

Ṭūṭā is the simple past ('it broke'), while ṭūṭā huā is the adjective ('it is broken').

गिलास टूट गया (The glass broke) vs टूटा हुआ गिलास (The broken glass).

टूटा हुआ vs तोड़ा (toṛā)

Both relate to breaking.

Toṛā is the transitive past (someone broke it). Ṭūṭā is intransitive (it broke).

उसने खिलौना तोड़ा (He broke the toy).

टूटा हुआ vs फूटा (phūṭā)

Similar sound and meaning.

Phūṭā is used for things that burst or pop, like a balloon, an eye, or a boil.

गुब्बारा फूट गया (The balloon burst).

टूटा हुआ vs खंडित (khaṇḍit)

Synonym for broken.

Khaṇḍit is very formal and usually reserved for statues or religious contexts.

मूर्ति खंडित है।

टूटा हुआ vs क्षतिग्रस्त (kshatigrast)

Synonym for damaged.

Kshatigrast is used in official/news contexts for large scale damage like buildings or cars.

गाड़ी क्षतिग्रस्त हो गई।

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] + टूटा हुआ + है।

कप टूटा हुआ है।

यह + [Adjective] + [Noun] + है।

यह टूटा हुआ खिलौना है।

मेरे पास + [Adjective] + [Noun] + है।

मेरे पास टूटी हुई साइकिल है।

[Adjective-Oblique] + [Noun] + में/पर...

टूटे हुए गिलास में पानी है।

वह + [Adjective] + महसूस कर रहा है।

वह टूटा हुआ महसूस कर रहा है।

[Noun] + टूटी-फूटी + [Language] + है।

उसकी हिंदी टूटी-फूटी है।

[Abstract Noun] + का + टूटा हुआ + [Noun]...

विश्वास का टूटा हुआ धागा।

[Adjective] + [Noun] + के माध्यम से...

टूटी हुई परंपराओं के माध्यम से...

Word Family

Nouns

टूट (ṭūṭ) - breakage/crack

टुकड़ा (ṭukṛā) - piece

टूट-फूट (ṭūṭ-fūṭ) - wear and tear

Verbs

टूटना (ṭūṭnā) - to break (intransitive)

तोड़ना (toṛnā) - to break (transitive)

तुड़वाना (tuṛvānā) - to cause to be broken

Adjectives

टूटा (ṭūṭā) - broken

टूटनेवाला (ṭūṭnewālā) - breakable

अटूट (aṭūṭ) - unbreakable

बिखरा (bikhrā) - scattered

नष्ट (naṣṭ) - destroyed

खंडित (khaṇḍit) - fragmented

क्षतिग्रस्त (kshatigrast) - damaged

बेकार (bekār) - useless

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written Hindi.

Common Mistakes

Using 'ṭūṭā huā' for a machine that won't start. → Use 'खराब' (kharāb).
If a car won't start but looks fine, it's 'kharāb'. If it was in a crash and is smashed, it's 'ṭūṭā huā'.
Saying 'ṭūṭā huā कुर्सी' (ṭūṭā huā kursī). → टूटी हुई कुर्सी (ṭūṭī huī kursī).
Kursī is feminine, so the adjective must match it with the 'ī' ending.
Saying 'टूटा हुआ गिलास में' (ṭūṭā huā gilās meim). → टूटे हुए गिलास में (ṭūṭe hue gilās meim).
Because of the postposition 'meim', the adjective must change to its oblique form 'ṭūṭe hue'.
Using 'ṭūṭā huā' for a torn shirt. → फटी हुई कमीज़ (phaṭī huī kameez).
Cloth is 'torn' (phaṭnā), not 'broken' (ṭūṭnā).
Omitting 'huā' in formal writing. → Include 'huā' to clearly indicate the state.
While 'ṭūṭā' is sometimes used alone, 'ṭūṭā huā' is the complete and correct adjectival form.

Tips

Master the Huā

Remember that 'huā' is essential to turn the verb into an adjective. Without it, you are often just saying 'broke' instead of 'broken'.

Physical vs Functional

Always ask: is it physically in pieces? If yes, use 'ṭūṭā huā'. If it just doesn't work, use 'kharāb'.

Retroflex T

The 'ṭ' in 'ṭūṭā' is retroflex. Curl your tongue back for a sharp, hard sound. This distinguishes it from other sounds.

Emotional Depth

Don't be afraid to use 'ṭūṭā huā' for feelings. It's very common in Hindi to express deep sadness this way.

Broken Language

If you are struggling to speak Hindi, you can humbly say 'मेरी हिंदी थोड़ी टूटी-फूटी है' (My Hindi is a bit broken). People will appreciate the effort!

Artistic Terms

If you are in a museum, look for the word 'खंडित' (khaṇḍit) on labels for broken statues.

Agreement is Key

Always check the noun's gender. 'ṭūṭā' (m), 'ṭūṭī' (f), 'ṭūṭe' (pl). This is the most common mistake for learners.

Song Lyrics

Listen to Bollywood songs. You will hear 'ṭūṭā huā dil' constantly. It's a great way to hear the word in context.

Oblique Case

Remember to change 'ṭūṭā huā' to 'ṭūṭe hue' if you use a word like 'in' or 'on' after a masculine noun.

Synonym Check

Use 'chaknāchūr' if you want to sound more dramatic and emphasize that something is completely shattered.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Two-Ta' (टू-टा). Imagine something breaking into TWO pieces. The 'huā' sounds like 'whoops!', which is what you say when you break something.

Visual Association

Visualize a cracked mirror or a broken heart icon. Associate the jagged lines of the crack with the sharp 'ṭ' sound in 'ṭūṭā'.

Word Web

Broken Damaged Shattered Heartbreak Fragmented Cracked Snapped Torn

Challenge

Go around your house and find three things that are 'ṭūṭā huā'. Name them in Hindi using the correct gender (e.g., ṭūṭī huī pencil).

Word Origin

Derived from the Sanskrit root 'त्रुट्' (truṭ), which means to break, split, or be reduced to pieces. It passed through Prakrit 'tuṭṭai' before becoming the modern Hindi 'ṭūṭnā'.

Original meaning: To snap, to fracture, or to be separated into parts.

Indo-Aryan

Cultural Context

Be sensitive when using 'ṭūṭā huā' for people; it can imply a loss of dignity or mental health struggles.

English speakers often use 'broken' for things that don't work (like a computer). In Hindi, you must distinguish between 'ṭūṭā huā' (physical) and 'kharāb' (functional).

Song: 'Dil Ke Tukde Tukde Karke' (Breaking the heart into pieces). Movie: 'Devdas' (Iconic portrayal of a broken man). Poem: 'Toote Hue Sapne' by various poets.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Repair Shop

स्क्रीन टूटी हुई है।
क्या यह टूटा हुआ हिस्सा बदल सकते हैं?
अंदर से कुछ टूटा हुआ लग रहा है।
यह कब से टूटा हुआ है?

Doctor's Office

क्या मेरी हड्डी टूटी हुई है?
यह जगह टूटी हुई महसूस हो रही है।
टूटी हुई उंगली पर प्लास्टर लगेगा।
हड्डी कहाँ से टूटी हुई है?

At Home

टूटा हुआ गिलास उठाओ।
कुर्सी टूटी हुई है, उस पर मत बैठो।
खिलौना किसने तोड़ा? यह टूटा हुआ क्यों है?
टूटी हुई खिड़की से ठंडी हवा आ रही है।

Emotional Talk

मेरा दिल टूटा हुआ है।
वह अंदर से बिल्कुल टूटा हुआ महसूस कर रहा है।
टूटे हुए रिश्तों को जोड़ना मुश्किल है।
वह एक टूटे हुए इंसान की तरह बात कर रहा है।

Travel/Roads

आगे सड़क टूटी हुई है।
टूटी हुई पुलिया पर जाना खतरनाक है।
गाड़ी का शीशा टूटा हुआ था।
रास्ते में बहुत सारे टूटे हुए पत्थर थे।

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपको लगता है कि एक टूटा हुआ रिश्ता फिर से जुड़ सकता है?"

"अगर आपका फोन टूटा हुआ हो, तो क्या आप उसे तुरंत ठीक करवाते हैं?"

"क्या आपने कभी कोई टूटा हुआ तारा (shooting star) देखा है?"

"आपके घर में सबसे पुरानी और टूटी हुई चीज़ क्या है?"

"क्या टूटी-फूटी हिंदी बोलना सीखने का एक अच्छा तरीका है?"

Journal Prompts

किसी ऐसी चीज़ के बारे में लिखें जो टूटी हुई है लेकिन आपके लिए बहुत कीमती है।

क्या आपने कभी टूटा हुआ महसूस किया है? उस अनुभव के बारे में लिखें।

एक कहानी लिखें जिसका शीर्षक हो 'टूटा हुआ आईना' (The Broken Mirror)।

समाज की किसी एक 'टूटी हुई व्यवस्था' को आप कैसे सुधारेंगे?

टूटे हुए सपनों और नई उम्मीदों के बीच के संघर्ष पर अपने विचार लिखें।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is very commonly used for emotional states like a 'broken heart' (ṭūṭā huā dil) or feelings of defeat and exhaustion. It can also refer to abstract concepts like broken promises or broken systems.

'ṭūṭā' is the past tense verb meaning 'broke' (e.g., 'it broke'). 'ṭūṭā huā' is an adjective describing the state (e.g., 'it is broken'). In most descriptive sentences, 'ṭūṭā huā' is more accurate.

You change it to 'टूटी हुई' (ṭūṭī huī). For example, a broken chair is 'टूटी हुई कुर्सी' because 'kursī' is feminine.

Only if the computer is physically smashed. If the software is just not working or it won't turn on, use 'खराब' (kharāb), which means 'out of order'.

Yes, 'टूटी हुई हड्डी' (ṭūṭī huī haḍḍī) is the standard way to say 'broken bone' in Hindi.

It means 'broken Hindi'. It refers to someone who can speak a little Hindi but makes many mistakes or uses fragmented sentences.

For masculine plural nouns, use 'टूटे हुए' (ṭūṭe hue). For example, 'टूटे हुए खिलौने' (broken toys).

It becomes 'ṭūṭe hue' if the noun is masculine and followed by a postposition like 'mein' (in), 'par' (on), or 'ko' (to). Example: 'टूटे हुए गिलास में' (in the broken glass).

It is a neutral, descriptive word. However, using it to describe a person's appearance or status can sometimes be insensitive, as it implies they are 'damaged'.

The most common opposite is 'साबुत' (sābut), meaning 'whole' or 'intact'. You could also use 'नया' (nayā) for something brand new and undamaged.