穿破 in 30 Seconds
- 穿破 (chuān pò) means to wear something out until it breaks or has holes.
- It's commonly used for clothes, socks, shoes, and other fabric items.
- The damage is due to prolonged use, friction, or pressure.
- It implies an item is no longer usable and needs replacement.
- Core Meaning
- The Chinese phrase 穿破 (chuān pò) literally means 'to wear through' or 'to wear until broken'. It describes the physical process of an item, typically clothing or fabric, becoming damaged and developing holes due to prolonged use, friction, or being too tight.
- Common Applications
- This phrase is most frequently used when talking about clothes that have become old and worn out. For example, if your socks have holes in the heels or your jeans have worn thin at the knees, you can say they have 穿破了 (chuān pò le). It implies that the item is no longer in good condition and needs to be replaced. Beyond clothing, it can also be used metaphorically to describe something that has been penetrated or broken through, though this is less common in everyday conversation and more in literary or specialized contexts.
- Nuance of Wear
- The emphasis is on the gradual process of wearing down leading to a breach or hole. It's not about a sudden tear, but rather the result of extensive use. Think of the friction of walking causing the sole of a shoe to wear thin, or the constant rubbing of a backpack strap against a jacket. The word 破 (pò) inherently means 'broken' or 'torn', so 穿破 clearly conveys that an object has been worn to the point of being broken.
- Everyday Scenarios
- Imagine a child playing vigorously and their knees in their pants becoming thin and eventually developing holes. A parent might say, '你的裤子膝盖都穿破了！' (Nǐ de kùzi xīgài dōu chuān pò le! - Your pants' knees are worn through!). Similarly, a hiker might discover that their hiking boots have 穿破了 (chuān pò le) after many miles, meaning the soles are worn out or there's a hole. The phrase evokes a sense of natural wear and tear, often associated with items that are well-loved or heavily used.
我的旧袜子 穿破 了，我得买双新的。
这件毛衣穿了几年，袖子都 穿破 了。
别光顾着跑，小心把鞋底 穿破 了。
- Basic Structure
- The most straightforward way to use 穿破 is to place the object that is worn out before the verb. For example, 'socks worn out' would be 袜子穿破 (wàzi chuān pò). As mentioned, adding 了 (le) at the end is very common to signify that the action has occurred or the state has been reached.
- Specifying the Worn Part
- You can be more specific about which part of the item is worn out. This is often done by placing the location before 穿破. For instance, 'knees worn out' in pants would be 裤子膝盖穿破 (kùzi xīgài chuān pò). This makes the description more vivid and precise.
- Adding Context with Time and Cause
- To provide more information, you can add time phrases or reasons. For example, 'after wearing for many years, the socks wore out' could be '穿了很多年，我的袜子都穿破了' (chuān le hěn duō nián, wǒ de wàzi dōu chuān pò le). If the cause is friction, you might say '因为经常摩擦，这里的布料穿破了' (yīnwèi jīngcháng mócā, zhèlǐ de bùliào chuān pò le - Because of frequent friction, the fabric here wore through).
- Using with Modifiers
- You can use adverbs to describe the extent of the wear. For instance, 'completely worn out' could be '完全穿破' (wánquán chuān pò). However, it's more common to use phrases that imply completeness, like '都穿破了' (dōu chuān pò le - all worn out).
- Sentence Examples
- Here are some examples illustrating these structures:
- 我每天都穿这双鞋，鞋底都快穿破了。(Wǒ měitiān dōu chuān zhè shuāng xié, xiédǐ dōu kuài chuān pò le. - I wear these shoes every day, and the soles are almost worn through.)
- 这件旧衣服的肘部已经穿破了。(Zhè jiàn jiù yīfú de zhǒu bù yǐjīng chuān pò le. - The elbows of this old piece of clothing have already worn through.)
- 孩子们玩得太疯了，他们的裤子膝盖都穿破了。(Háizimen wán dé tài fēng le, tāmen de kùzi xīgài dōu chuān pò le. - The children played too wildly, and the knees of their pants wore through.)
我的旧牛仔裤 穿破 了，膝盖那里露出了白色的衬里。
这双袜子太薄了，经常 穿破 脚后跟。
背包的肩带太紧了，把外套 穿破 了一个洞。
- In the Home
- This is a very common phrase heard in households, especially when discussing children's clothes or the general state of clothing. Parents often lamenting about how quickly their children's pants or shirts get worn out. 'Look, your pants have 穿破了 again!' is a typical exclamation. It's also used when sorting through old clothes to discard them. 'These socks are too worn out, they've 穿破了.'
- In Clothing Stores (Second-hand/Repair)
- While not used to sell new items, you might hear 穿破 in discussions about second-hand clothing. A seller might point out a flaw, 'This jacket has a small hole where it's 穿破了 from the strap.' Conversely, a tailor or repair person might use it to describe a problem they need to fix, 'The seam here is starting to 穿破.'
- Among Friends and Family
- Casual conversations among friends and family often involve discussing everyday items. 'My favorite sweater has 穿破了 at the elbows, I'm so sad!' or 'I need to buy new shoes, these ones have 穿破了.' It's a practical, everyday term used to describe a common phenomenon.
- In the Context of Hobbies/Activities
- If someone is involved in activities that cause wear and tear, like hiking, cycling, or manual labor, they might use this phrase. 'After that long hike, my socks were completely 穿破了.' or 'My work gloves have 穿破了 in several places.' It signifies the toll that strenuous activity can take on equipment.
- General Conversation About Durability
- When people talk about the quality or durability of products, they might use 穿破 to illustrate a point about something not lasting. 'I bought this cheap shirt, and it didn't even last a month before it 穿破了.' This contrasts with items that are known for their longevity.
妈妈对我说：“你的裤子 穿破 了，该换新的了。”
我太喜欢这件毛衣了，虽然它 穿破 了，我还是舍不得扔。
这双登山鞋陪我走了很多路，鞋底都 穿破 了。
- Confusing with Sudden Tears
- A common mistake is using 穿破 when the damage is a sudden tear rather than gradual wear. For instance, if a sharp object snags your pants and creates a rip, you wouldn't typically say it 穿破了. Instead, you'd use verbs like 撕裂 (sī liè - to tear) or 划破 (huá pò - to cut through). 穿破 specifically implies damage from friction, pressure, or prolonged use.
- Misplacing the Object
- Learners might sometimes put the object after the verb, which is grammatically incorrect for this structure. The object being worn out should precede 穿破. For example, saying '穿破了袜子' (chuān pò le wàzi) is incorrect; it should be '袜子穿破了' (wàzi chuān pò le).
- Overuse of '破' Alone
- While 破 (pò) means 'broken' or 'torn', it's a more general term. 穿破 is more specific to the *process* of wearing something until it breaks. Using just 破 might be understood in context, but 穿破 provides a clearer and more accurate description of wear and tear.
- Ignoring the Particle '了'
- As mentioned, the particle 了 (le) is very frequently used with 穿破 to indicate that the item is now in a state of being worn out. Omitting it, especially in spoken Chinese, can sometimes sound a bit abrupt or incomplete, although it's not strictly incorrect in all contexts. However, for learners, it's best practice to include 了 when describing an item that has become worn through.
- Applying to Non-Fabric Items
- While 穿破 can sometimes be used metaphorically, its primary and most common application is for fabric items that are physically worn through. Using it for objects that break in other ways (e.g., a glass shattering) would be incorrect. For example, you wouldn't say a phone screen 穿破了 if it cracked; you'd say 碎了 (suì le - shattered) or 裂了 (liè le - cracked).
错误：我的裤子撕裂了，我把它 穿破 了。
正确：我的裤子 穿破 了，我得买新的。
错误：我把袜子 穿破 了。
正确：我的袜子 穿破 了。
- 磨损 (mó sǔn)
- 磨损 means 'to wear down' or 'abrasion'. It describes the general process of an object becoming less durable or its surface becoming rougher due to friction. It's a broader term than 穿破. You can say a tire is 磨损了 (mó sǔn le - worn out), but 穿破 is more specific to creating holes. 穿破 is a result of 磨损.
- 破旧 (pò jiù)
- 破旧 is an adjective meaning 'old and worn out' or 'tattered'. It describes the state of an item. You would say an item is 破旧 (pò jiù) because it has 穿破了 (chuān pò le). For example, '这件衣服很破旧' (Zhè jiàn yīfú hěn pò jiù - This piece of clothing is very old and worn out).
- 损坏 (sǔn huài)
- 损坏 is a general term for 'to damage' or 'to break'. It can apply to almost anything. 穿破 is a specific type of 损坏 that happens due to wear. You can say an item is 损坏了 (sǔn huài le), and the reason for the damage might be that it 穿破了 (chuān pò le).
- 弄坏 (nòng huài)
- 弄坏 means 'to break something' or 'to spoil something', often implying it was done accidentally or carelessly. It's more about causing damage rather than the natural process of wear. You might 弄坏 a toy, but you 穿破 your socks.
- 扯破 (chě pò)
- 扯破 means 'to tear apart' or 'to rip'. This implies a more forceful action, like pulling something apart, which causes it to tear. 穿破 is about gradual wear, while 扯破 is about a sudden, forceful tear.
Comparison: 磨损 vs 穿破
The tire is worn (磨损), but the sock has a hole (穿破).
Comparison: 破旧 vs 穿破
The clothes are tattered (破旧) because they have been worn through (穿破了).
Comparison: 损坏 vs 穿破
The phone is damaged (损坏), but the jeans are worn through (穿破了).
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character 穿 (chuān) itself historically depicted a needle passing through fabric, visually representing the act of sewing or piercing. When combined with 破 (pò), which signifies breaking or tearing, it creates a vivid image of an item being worn down to the point of having holes.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the initial 'ch' sound as 'sh' or 'ts'.
- Incorrectly assigning tones, especially confusing the first and second tones.
- Pronouncing the vowels incorrectly, making them too short or too long.
- Not aspirating the initial 'ch' sound.
- Confusing the tone contours (e.g., using a flat tone instead of falling or rising).
Difficulty Rating
The word itself is straightforward, but understanding its nuances in context, especially differentiating it from similar verbs like 磨损 or 扯破, requires practice. Recognizing its common collocations is key for comprehension.
Using 穿破 correctly in sentences, particularly with the particle 了 and specifying the location of the wear, can be challenging. Learners need to practice sentence construction.
Pronunciation and tone accuracy are important. Fluency in using 穿破 in natural-sounding sentences, especially when describing everyday wear and tear, comes with practice.
Recognizing 穿破 in spoken Chinese requires familiarity with its pronunciation and common contexts. Distinguishing it from similar-sounding words or phrases can be tricky.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The particle 了 (le) is often used after verbs to indicate completion or a change of state. When describing an item that has become worn through, '穿破了' is very common.
我的袜子 穿破 了。
Specifying the location of the wear is common. This is often done by placing the location before the verb.
裤子 膝盖 穿破了。
The structure 'Object + Verb' is standard for direct objects.
袜子 穿破 了。
Adverbs can modify the verb to indicate the extent or manner of wear.
这件衣服 太容易 穿破。
Cause and effect can be expressed using conjunctions like '因为' (yīnwèi - because) followed by the result.
因为 经常摩擦，布料穿破了。
Examples by Level
我的袜子破了。
My socks are broken/have holes.
Simple statement of a worn item.
裤子上有个洞。
There is a hole in the pants.
Focus on the result (hole).
鞋子旧了。
The shoes are old.
General state of being old.
衣服坏了。
The clothes are broken/damaged.
General damage.
我的手套有洞。
My gloves have holes.
Specific item with holes.
这个包旧了。
This bag is old.
Describing the age of an item.
我的衬衫破了。
My shirt is broken/has a hole.
Shirt with damage.
裤子后面有个洞。
There is a hole in the back of the pants.
Specifying location of the hole.
我的旧袜子 穿破 了。
My old socks wore through.
Introduces 穿破 for worn-out socks.
他的牛仔裤膝盖 穿破 了。
His jeans wore through at the knees.
Specifies the part of the clothing worn out.
这件毛衣 穿破 了，我不能再穿了。
This sweater wore through, I can't wear it anymore.
Connects the state of being worn out with inability to use.
我每天都穿这双鞋，鞋底都快 穿破 了。
I wear these shoes every day, the soles are almost worn through.
Describes wear on footwear.
孩子们的衣服很容易 穿破。
Children's clothes wear out easily.
General statement about the tendency of children's clothes to wear out.
背包的肩带 穿破 了我的外套。
The backpack strap wore through my jacket.
Describes damage caused by friction.
这双袜子太薄了，很容易 穿破。
These socks are too thin, they wear out easily.
Explains the cause of wear.
我的旧裤子 穿破 了，我得买新的。
My old pants wore through, I need to buy new ones.
Direct statement about needing replacement.
这件衣服穿了好几年，膝盖和袖口都 穿破 了。
This piece of clothing has been worn for several years, and the knees and cuffs have worn through.
Specifies multiple areas of wear on a garment.
他是个体力劳动者，他的工作服经常 穿破。
He is a manual laborer, his work clothes often wear through.
Connects the verb with a specific profession and its consequences.
别老穿这双鞋，鞋底的纹路都快 穿破 了。
Don't keep wearing these shoes; the tread on the soles is almost worn through.
Focuses on the specific part of the shoe and its wear.
我以为这件外套很结实，没想到才穿了一个冬天就 穿破 了。
I thought this jacket was very durable, but unexpectedly it wore through after only one winter.
Expresses surprise at the item wearing out quickly.
经过长途跋涉，我的登山靴 穿破 了好几个地方。
After a long trek, my hiking boots wore through in several places.
Describes wear on specialized footwear after strenuous activity.
她小心翼翼地缝补着那件 穿破 了的衬衫。
She was carefully mending the shirt that had worn through.
Uses 穿破 to describe the state of an item being mended.
这种廉价的布料很容易 穿破，不适合做运动服。
This kind of cheap fabric wears out easily and is not suitable for sportswear.
Discusses material quality in relation to wear.
孩子在地上打滚，把裤子的 穿破 了。
The child rolled on the ground, wearing through the pants.
Describes an action leading to the item wearing out.
经过无数次的摩擦，背包的底部已经 穿破，露出了里面的衬垫。
After countless instances of friction, the bottom of the backpack has worn through, exposing the inner padding.
Detailed description of wear due to friction.
这件羊绒衫虽然价格不菲，但由于经常穿着，几个月后 穿破 了肘部。
Although this cashmere sweater was expensive, due to frequent wear, the elbows wore through after a few months.
Contrasts cost with durability and specific wear.
我们必须警惕那些看似耐用，实则容易 穿破 的劣质产品。
We must be wary of those inferior products that appear durable but actually wear out easily.
Uses 穿破 in a cautionary, more abstract sense about product quality.
长期暴露在恶劣环境下，任何织物最终都会 穿破。
When exposed to harsh environments for a long time, any fabric will eventually wear through.
General statement about fabric degradation.
他的拳击手套 穿破 了，这预示着他训练的强度。
His boxing gloves wore through, which signifies the intensity of his training.
Uses wear and tear as an indicator of something else.
即便如此精细的工艺，如果使用不当，也会导致布料 穿破。
Even with such fine craftsmanship, improper use can also lead to the fabric wearing through.
Discusses the interplay of craftsmanship and usage.
他们不得不更换那些 穿破 了的帆布座椅。
They had to replace those worn-through canvas seats.
Describes replacement of worn items.
新买的裤子在第一次徒步旅行中就 穿破 了，这让我非常失望。
The newly bought pants wore through during the first hiking trip, which greatly disappointed me.
Expresses disappointment over premature wear.
在长年累月的风雨侵蚀下，那些曾经坚固的帆布帐篷也难逃 穿破 的命运。
Under years of erosion from wind and rain, even those once sturdy canvas tents could not escape the fate of wearing through.
Literary and descriptive use, emphasizing inevitable wear.
这双定制的皮鞋，虽然保养得当，但由于每日的频繁穿着，鞋底的皮革已然 穿破。
These custom-made leather shoes, though well-maintained, have had their soles worn through due to frequent daily wear.
Sophisticated description of wear on premium items.
他指着那件 穿破 了的旧外套，讲述着他年轻时的艰辛岁月。
He pointed to that worn-through old jacket and recounted his hard times in his youth.
Using the worn item as a symbol or prop for storytelling.
我们不能仅凭产品标签上的耐用性宣传就断定它不会 穿破。
We cannot conclude that a product will not wear through solely based on the durability claims on its label.
Critiquing marketing claims regarding longevity.
经济的压力使得许多家庭不得不延长衣物的使用寿命，直到它们 穿破 为止。
Economic pressure forces many families to extend the lifespan of their clothing until it wears through.
Discussing economic factors influencing clothing use.
每一次 穿破 的痕迹，都记录着一段被岁月打磨的时光。
Every trace of being worn through records a period of time polished by the years.
Poetic and metaphorical interpretation of wear.
他对待那件 穿破 了的毛衣，就像对待一位老朋友，充满了不舍。
He treated that worn-through sweater as if it were an old friend, filled with reluctance to part.
Personifying the worn item and the emotional attachment to it.
我们必须认识到，过度使用和不当护理是导致衣物 穿破 的主要原因。
We must recognize that overuse and improper care are the main reasons for clothing wearing through.
Analyzing the causes of wear and tear in a formal context.
在漫长的历史长河中，无数的衣物 穿破 了，它们的故事却被织进了文化的经纬。
In the long river of history, countless garments have worn through, yet their stories are woven into the fabric of culture.
Abstract, philosophical, and historical perspective on wear.
这件祖传的披肩，虽已 穿破 多处，却依旧被视为家族传承的宝贵象征。
This ancestral shawl, although worn through in many places, is still regarded as a precious symbol of family heritage.
Focuses on the symbolic value of a worn item.
我们应反思，现代社会对“新”的过度追求，是否加速了物品 穿破 的进程，并导致了资源的浪费。
We should reflect on whether modern society's excessive pursuit of 'newness' accelerates the process of items wearing through and leads to resource waste.
Social commentary on consumerism and waste.
当一件物品 穿破 了，它并未真正消失，而是以另一种形式，如回忆、经验或教训，融入了我们的生命。
When an item wears through, it does not truly disappear, but rather, in another form such as memories, experiences, or lessons, integrates into our lives.
Metaphorical and philosophical interpretation of wear and loss.
从古至今，无论是朴素的麻布还是华贵的丝绸，都无法完全抵御时间与使用的力量，最终 穿破 亦是其宿命。
From ancient times to the present, whether it be simple linen or luxurious silk, none can completely resist the power of time and use; wearing through is ultimately their fate.
Historical and existential reflection on the nature of materials.
他审视着那件 穿破 了的帆布背包，仿佛在其中看到了自己过去无数次的跋涉与坚持。
He examined the worn-through canvas backpack, as if seeing in it countless past treks and perseverance.
Deep personal connection and reflection triggered by a worn item.
我们对“完美”的执念，有时反而让我们忽略了 穿破 所蕴含的生命力与故事性。
Our obsession with 'perfection' sometimes makes us overlook the vitality and narrative quality contained within being worn through.
Philosophical contemplation on beauty in imperfection.
在极端的生存环境下，即使是最坚韧的材料，也终将 穿破，显露出其脆弱的本质。
In extreme survival conditions, even the most resilient materials will eventually wear through, revealing their fragile essence.
Scientific and survival-oriented perspective on material limits.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Has worn through/broken. This is the most common way to use the verb, indicating the completion of the action or the resulting state.
我的袜子都穿破了，我得买新的。
— Knees worn through. Specifically refers to the knees of pants or trousers becoming thin and developing holes due to wear.
这件儿童裤的膝盖穿破了，这是常有的事。
— Soles worn through. Refers to the soles of shoes becoming thin and developing holes, making them unusable.
他每天都穿着这双鞋，鞋底都穿破了。
— Easily wears through. Describes materials or items that are not durable and tend to develop holes quickly.
这种薄的毛衣很容易穿破。
— Wore through a hole. Emphasizes the creation of a specific opening or hole due to wear.
我的旧牛仔裤在屁股那里穿破了一个洞。
— Wore through in several places. Indicates that damage has occurred in multiple areas of the item.
这件衣服穿了太久，已经穿破了好几个地方。
— Until it wears through. Used to describe the extent of use or the point at which an item becomes unusable.
有些人会把衣服穿破为止，再买新的。
— Worn through by grinding/friction. Similar to 穿破 but emphasizes the abrasive cause.
背包底部被地面磨得穿破了。
— Traces of being worn through. Refers to the visible signs or marks left by the process of wearing out.
这件旧外套上留下了许多穿破的痕迹。
— Don't let it wear through. A command or advice to take care of an item to prevent it from wearing out.
你要好好爱惜这件衣服，别让它轻易穿破。
Often Confused With
磨损 means to wear down or abrade. It's a broader term describing the general process of an item becoming less durable. 穿破 is a specific outcome of磨损 where a hole is created. You can say a tire is 磨损了, but you'd say socks 穿破了.
扯破 means to tear apart by force. It implies a sudden, forceful action, whereas 穿破 is a gradual process from wearing. You 扯破 a piece of paper by ripping it, but you 穿破 your jeans at the knees from friction.
损坏 is a general term for 'to damage' or 'to break'. 穿破 is a specific type of damage caused by wear. An item can be 损坏 in many ways, but 穿破 specifically refers to wearing through.
Idioms & Expressions
— Ragged and tattered clothes. This idiom describes someone whose clothes are extremely worn out, torn, and in disarray, often implying poverty or hardship. While 穿破 describes the process of clothing becoming worn, 衣衫褴褛 describes the resulting state of extreme dilapidation.
他衣衫褴褛地站在街头，看起来很可怜。
Literary/Descriptive— To thread a needle; to act as a matchmaker or go-between. This idiom has a literal meaning related to sewing (穿针) and a figurative meaning of connecting people. It is unrelated to the physical act of wearing something out (穿破).
她很擅长穿针引线，帮了很多朋友牵线搭桥。
Literal and Figurative— To break the cauldrons and sink the boats; to cut off all means of retreat. This idiom describes a desperate, all-or-nothing approach, implying a resolute decision to fight to the end. It is unrelated to the physical wear and tear of items.
为了这次考试，他决定破釜沉舟，专心复习。
Figurative/Strategic— To sharpen knives and prepare for action; to be ready for a fight or a big task. This idiom describes preparation for a challenging endeavor, often implying an aggressive or determined stance. It is unrelated to the wear and tear of objects.
新的一年开始了，我们要磨刀霍霍，迎接新的挑战。
Figurative/Preparatory— To look at someone with new eyes; to be impressed by someone's changed or improved performance. This idiom refers to a change in perception of a person, not the physical state of objects.
他这次考试成绩优异，让老师们刮目相看。
Figurative/Evaluative— Nothing can be accomplished without passing through the old; destruction leads to construction. This idiom suggests that to create something new and better, the old must first be broken down or overcome. It has a philosophical meaning related to progress and change, not literal wear.
在科技领域，不破不立是常态，只有不断创新才能进步。
Philosophical/Abstract— Heart-rending; soul-stirring. This idiom describes extreme emotional pain or suffering, often related to grief or sorrow. It is unrelated to the physical wear of items.
听到这个不幸的消息，他感到穿心裂肺的痛苦。
Figurative/Emotional— Full of holes; riddled with defects. This idiom describes something that is severely damaged, flawed, or has many problems. It can apply to objects or abstract concepts (like a plan). While 穿破 can lead to something being 千疮百孔, the idiom itself describes a state of widespread damage.
这个计划存在千疮百孔的问题，需要重新审视。
Figurative/Descriptive— To wear gold and silver; to be adorned with jewelry. This idiom describes someone who is richly adorned with precious metals and jewelry, often implying wealth and ostentation.
她总是穿金戴银，显得非常富有。
Descriptive/Social— Clothes do not cover the body; scantily clad. This idiom describes someone who has insufficient clothing, often due to poverty, and their body is not adequately covered. It is related to the state of being worn out but focuses on the lack of coverage.
在寒冷的冬天，他衣不蔽体，非常可怜。
Descriptive/SocialEasily Confused
Both describe wear and tear.
磨损 (mó sǔn) refers to the general process of wearing down or abrasion. It focuses on the surface becoming rougher or thinner. 穿破 (chuān pò) specifically refers to the result of this wear process, which is the creation of a hole or a tear. You can say an object is 磨损 (worn down), but the outcome of that 磨损 might be that it 穿破了 (wore through).
这双鞋的鞋底 <mark>磨损</mark> 得厉害，都快 <mark>穿破</mark> 了。
Both involve the word '破' (break/tear) and result in damage.
扯破 (chě pò) means to tear something apart, usually with a sudden, forceful action like pulling. 穿破 (chuān pò) means to wear something through, implying a gradual process caused by friction, pressure, or prolonged use. You might 扯破 a bag by pulling it too hard, but you 穿破 your jeans at the knees by wearing them.
我不小心 <mark>扯破</mark> 了衣服的袖子，而我的旧裤子 <mark>穿破</mark> 了膝盖。
Both relate to items being old and damaged.
破旧 (pò jiù) is an adjective meaning 'old and worn out' or 'tattered'. It describes the state of an item. 穿破 (chuān pò) is a verb describing the process by which an item becomes worn out and develops holes. An item becomes 破旧 because it has 穿破了.
这件 <mark>破旧</mark> 的外套是我 <mark>穿破</mark> 的。
Both refer to damage.
损坏 (sǔn huài) is a very general term for 'damage' or 'breakage'. It can apply to almost anything and any type of damage. 穿破 (chuān pò) is a specific type of 损坏 that occurs due to wear and tear leading to holes. For example, a phone screen might be 损坏 (damaged) if it cracks, but a sock 穿破了 (wore through) when it gets a hole from use.
不小心 <mark>损坏</mark> 了手机是常有的事，但我的袜子 <mark>穿破</mark> 了是因为太旧了。
Very similar meaning and usage.
磨穿 (mó chuān) is almost identical in meaning to 穿破 (chuān pò) and is often used interchangeably, especially when referring to fabric. Both mean to wear through by friction. 磨穿 emphasizes the 'grinding' or 'rubbing' aspect of the wear more strongly. For example, 'the sole of the shoe wore through' can be expressed as 鞋底穿破了 or 鞋底磨穿了.
我的旧鞋 <mark>磨穿</mark> 了鞋底，它们也 <mark>穿破</mark> 了。
Sentence Patterns
Object + 穿破 + 了。
我的袜子 <mark>穿破</mark> 了。
Object + Location + 穿破 + 了。
裤子 <mark>膝盖</mark> 穿破了。
Subject + 经常 + 穿破。
他的鞋子 <mark>经常</mark> 穿破。
因为 + Cause + , + Object + 穿破了。
因为 <mark>摩擦</mark>，布料穿破了。
Adverb + Object + 穿破 + 了。
这件衣服 <mark>很快</mark> 就穿破了。
Object + 穿破 + 了 + , + Consequence。
我的旧裤子 <mark>穿破</mark> 了，所以不能再穿了。
经过 + Time/Process + , + Object + 穿破 + 了。
<mark>经过长年累月</mark> 的使用，这件外套的袖口穿破了。
Object + 并非 + 不会 + 穿破。
再好的 <mark>布料</mark>，也并非不会穿破。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very High in spoken Chinese when referring to everyday items.
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Using 穿破 for sudden tears.
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Using 撕裂 (sī liè) or 扯破 (chě pò) for sudden rips.
穿破 specifically implies damage from gradual wear, friction, or prolonged use. A sudden rip from pulling or a sharp object requires a different verb.
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Omitting the particle 了 (le) when describing the state of being worn through.
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Adding 了 (le) after 穿破, e.g., 穿破了.
While not always grammatically incorrect, omitting 了 often makes the sentence sound incomplete or abrupt when describing the current state of an item that has been worn through. '穿破了' is the most natural way to express this.
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Confusing the order of words, e.g., 穿破了袜子 instead of 袜子穿破了.
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Object + 穿破 + 了.
The object being worn out should precede the verb phrase. The structure should be 'socks wore through' (袜子穿破了), not 'wore through socks' (穿破了袜子) in this context.
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Using 穿破 for damage not caused by wear.
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Using appropriate verbs for other types of damage, like 摔坏 (shuāi huài - broken by dropping) or 压坏 (yā huài - broken by pressure).
穿破 is specific to wear and tear. If an item breaks due to being dropped or crushed, 穿破 is not the correct term.
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Treating 穿破 as a general term for any damage.
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Using 损坏 (sǔn huài) for general damage and 穿破 for wear-induced holes.
损坏 is a broad term for 'damage'. 穿破 is more specific, describing the process of wearing something until it develops holes. Using 穿破 for non-wear-related damage would be inaccurate.
Tips
Focus on the Process
Remember that 穿破 emphasizes the process of wearing something until it breaks. It's not just about the hole itself, but how it got there due to use and friction.
Use '了' for Completion
In most cases, adding the particle 了 (le) after 穿破 (e.g., 穿破了) is essential to indicate that the item is now in a worn-out state or that the action of wearing through has been completed.
Visualize the Wear
Picture a pair of old socks with holes in the heels or toes. This strong visual can help you remember the meaning of 穿破.
Master the Tones
Practice the tones: 穿 (chuān) is typically first tone (high-falling), and 破 (pò) is second tone (low-rising). Correct tones are crucial for clear communication.
Distinguish from Sudden Tears
Remember that 穿破 is for gradual wear. For sudden rips or tears, use words like 撕裂 (sī liè) or 扯破 (chě pò).
Specify the Location
To make your descriptions more precise, specify which part of the item wore through, such as '膝盖穿破了' (knees wore through) or '鞋底穿破了' (soles wore through).
Natural Wear and Tear
In Chinese culture, 穿破 is often seen as a natural consequence of items being well-used and loved, rather than something to be ashamed of.
Use in Sentences
Actively try to form sentences using 穿破 in different contexts. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.
Learn Related Words
Expand your vocabulary by learning related terms like 磨损 (mó sǔn - wear down), 破洞 (pò dòng - hole), and 破旧 (pò jiù - old and worn out).
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine wearing a very tight pair of jeans. As you try to move, the fabric stretches and rubs against itself, especially at the knees. Eventually, the denim becomes thin and you hear a 'rip!' – the jeans have 穿破了. Think of 'chuān' sounding like 'chew' and 'pò' sounding like 'pop' – you chew your clothes until they pop open!
Visual Association
Picture a pair of old, beloved socks with prominent holes in the heels and toes. Imagine them being so worn that you can see the floor through them. This visual of socks completely worn out can help remember 穿破.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three different items you own that are currently 穿破了 or have been 穿破了 in the past. Use the word 穿破 in your descriptions.
Word Origin
The term 穿破 is a compound word formed by combining the verb 穿 (chuān), meaning 'to wear' or 'to pass through', and the verb 破 (pò), meaning 'to break' or 'to tear'. This combination directly reflects the action of wearing something to the point of breaking.
Original meaning: The literal meaning is 'to wear and break'. The character 穿 represents the act of passing through fabric (like a needle), and 破 signifies the resulting damage or breakage.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
When discussing 穿破, it's generally a neutral term related to the physical state of an object. However, if used to describe someone's clothing in a judgmental way, it could be perceived negatively, similar to calling someone 'shabbily dressed' in English. The context is key.
In English, we might say 'worn out', 'torn', 'holey', 'threadbare', or 'broken through'. The nuance of 穿破 specifically implies damage from the act of wearing.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing old or worn-out clothing.
- 我的袜子穿破了。
- 这件衣服太旧了，都穿破了。
- 裤子膝盖穿破了。
Talking about footwear that is no longer functional.
- 鞋底都穿破了。
- 这双鞋穿破了，得换了。
- 每天穿，鞋子很快就穿破。
Describing damage to accessories like bags or gloves.
- 背包底部穿破了。
- 手套的指尖穿破了。
- 这个包用久了，边角都穿破了。
Explaining why an item needs to be replaced.
- 因为它穿破了，所以不能再用了。
- 穿破了的东西就该扔掉。
- 这件衣服穿破了，我打算买件新的。
Complaining about the quality or durability of materials.
- 这种布料太容易穿破。
- 廉价的衣服很快就穿破。
- 质量不好，没多久就穿破了。
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever had a favorite piece of clothing that you wore until it finally wore through?"
"What's the most common item in your house that tends to wear out first?"
"Do you prefer to mend clothes when they get a small hole, or do you wait until they are completely worn through?"
"What kind of activities do you do that might cause your clothes or shoes to wear through quickly?"
"What are your thoughts on fast fashion and how quickly clothes are discarded nowadays, compared to when things were mended until they wore through?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time when a piece of clothing or footwear wore through. What was it, where did you wear it, and what did you do afterwards?
Think about the concept of 'wearing things out'. What does it mean to you? Is it a sign of good use or a waste of resources?
Write a short story about an object that gets worn through. What is its journey and what does its wear and tear signify?
Reflect on the materials of your belongings. Which ones tend to wear through the fastest, and why do you think that is?
Imagine you have a magical item that never wears through. How would that change your relationship with your belongings?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe literal translation of 穿破 is 'to wear and break' or 'to wear through'. 穿 (chuān) means 'to wear' or 'to pass through', and 破 (pò) means 'to break' or 'to tear'.
Primarily, 穿破 is used for fabric items like clothes, socks, shoes, and bags. While it can be used metaphorically in some contexts, its core meaning relates to physical wear and tear on pliable materials. For example, saying a wall 穿破了 would be unusual; you'd use a word like 'break through' or 'pierce'.
The particle 了 (le) is very commonly used with 穿破 to indicate that the item has reached the state of being worn through or broken. While not strictly mandatory in all grammatical structures, '穿破了' is the most natural and frequent way to express this in everyday conversation when describing an item that is now worn out.
磨损 (mó sǔn) means 'to wear down' or 'abrade' and refers to the general process of an item becoming less durable due to friction. 穿破 (chuān pò) is a specific result of this wear process, where a hole or tear is created. Think of 磨损 as the cause and 穿破 as the effect.
The parts that experience the most friction and stress are most likely to 穿破. For pants, this is typically the knees (膝盖 - xīgài) and sometimes the crotch area. For socks, it's often the heels (脚后跟 - jiǎo hòugēn) and toes (脚趾 - jiǎozhǐ). For shirts, elbows (肘部 - zhǒubù) are common.
No, 穿破 specifically implies damage from gradual wear, friction, or prolonged use. For sudden tears caused by sharp objects or forceful pulling, other words like 撕裂 (sī liè - to tear) or 划破 (huá pò - to cut through) are more appropriate.
穿破 is generally a neutral term, commonly used in everyday conversation. It's not overly formal or slangy. You'd hear it in casual discussions about clothing and everyday items.
Common collocations include 袜子穿破 (wàzi chuān pò - socks wore through), 裤子穿破 (kùzi chuān pò - pants wore through), 鞋底穿破 (xiédǐ chuān pò - shoe soles wore through), and 膝盖穿破 (xīgài chuān pò - knees wore through).
Opposites include 完好 (wán hǎo - in good condition), 崭新 (zhǎn xīn - brand new), and 牢固 (láo gù - sturdy/durable). These describe items that are not worn out or damaged.
While less common, it could be used metaphorically. However, for tools, more specific terms related to wear on blades or handles would be preferred. For example, a tool might be 'worn down' (磨损) or 'blunt' (钝 - dùn), rather than 穿破.
Test Yourself 10 questions
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Summary
穿破 (chuān pò) describes the physical process of an item, typically clothing, being worn down and developing holes or tears due to repeated use, friction, or pressure, indicating it is beyond repair and needs to be replaced. For example, 'My old socks have worn through' (我的旧袜子穿破了 - Wǒ de jiù wàzi chuān pò le).
- 穿破 (chuān pò) means to wear something out until it breaks or has holes.
- It's commonly used for clothes, socks, shoes, and other fabric items.
- The damage is due to prolonged use, friction, or pressure.
- It implies an item is no longer usable and needs replacement.
Focus on the Process
Remember that 穿破 emphasizes the process of wearing something until it breaks. It's not just about the hole itself, but how it got there due to use and friction.
Use '了' for Completion
In most cases, adding the particle 了 (le) after 穿破 (e.g., 穿破了) is essential to indicate that the item is now in a worn-out state or that the action of wearing through has been completed.
Context is Key
Pay attention to the context. If people are talking about old clothes, shoes, or bags, and the word 破 (pò) is used, it's highly likely they mean 穿破 (worn through).
Visualize the Wear
Picture a pair of old socks with holes in the heels or toes. This strong visual can help you remember the meaning of 穿破.
Example
这双鞋我已经穿破了。
