doorbreken
doorbreken em 30 segundos
- To break through an obstacle or barrier.
- Achieve significant progress or success.
- Often used for becoming famous or overcoming challenges.
- Implies effort and overcoming resistance.
- Core Meaning
- 'Doorbreken' literally means to break through something that is blocking your path or progress. This can be a physical barrier, like a wall or a blockade, or a more abstract obstacle, such as a difficult problem, a psychological barrier, or a period of stagnation.
- Figurative Use
- Beyond physical barriers, 'doorbreken' is frequently used to describe overcoming challenges in various aspects of life. This includes making a breakthrough in scientific research, achieving success after a period of struggle, or even a person breaking through their shyness or fear. It implies a significant advance or a successful overcoming of a difficulty.
- Contextual Nuances
- The word carries a sense of effort and determination. It's not just about passing an obstacle but actively breaking through it. This can apply to personal growth, professional achievements, or even societal changes. For instance, an artist might 'doorbreken' into the mainstream, or a country might 'doorbreken' economic sanctions. The context will always define the nature of the barrier being overcome.
- Examples in Use
- In sports, a team might 'doorbreken' a strong defense. In a personal development context, someone might finally 'doorbreken' their fear of public speaking. Scientifically, a discovery could 'doorbreken' a long-standing puzzle. The term signifies a moment of overcoming resistance and achieving a new level or state.
- Common Scenarios
- You'll often hear 'doorbreken' used when discussing career advancements, overcoming personal limitations, scientific or technological innovations, artistic recognition, and even in situations of social or political change where a group or idea manages to gain traction against opposition.
De nieuwe technologie heeft de markt weten te doorbreken.
Na jarenlang oefenen, is de zangeres eindelijk doorgebroken.
Het leger probeerde de vijandelijke linies te doorbreken.
Zij moest door haar verlegenheid heen doorbreken om haar ideeën te presenteren.
Wetenschappers hopen een belangrijke grens te doorbreken met dit onderzoek.
- Subject + doorbreken + Object/Barrier
- This is the most direct structure. The subject performs the action of breaking through the object or barrier. The object can be a noun representing a physical or abstract obstacle. For example: 'De vrachtwagen moest de barricade doorbreken.' (The truck had to break through the barricade.)
- Subject + doorbreken + Prepositional Phrase (e.g., door, uit)
- Often, 'doorbreken' is followed by a prepositional phrase indicating what is being broken through or out of. 'Door' (through) is very common for physical or abstract barriers. 'Uit' (out of) is used for breaking out of a situation or state. Example: 'Hij probeerde door de muur te doorbreken.' (He tried to break through the wall.) Another: 'Ze wil eindelijk doorbreken uit haar dagelijkse routine.' (She finally wants to break out of her daily routine.)
- Subject + doorbreken (intransitive, often with context)
- In many figurative uses, 'doorbreken' can be used intransitively, meaning the object is implied or understood from the context. This is very common when talking about achieving fame or success. Example: 'De jonge band hoopt snel te doorbreken.' (The young band hopes to break through soon.) Here, 'doorbreken' implies breaking into the music industry or achieving popularity.
- Subject + doorbreken + als/tot (to break through *as* / *to*)
- When referring to achieving a certain status or recognition, you might see 'doorbreken' used with 'als' (as) or 'tot' (to). Example: 'Hij brak door als een getalenteerde auteur.' (He broke through as a talented author.) Or: 'Het schilderij brak door tot de internationale kunstscene.' (The painting broke through to the international art scene.)
- Using Past Participle (doorgebroken)
- The past participle 'doorgebroken' is used in perfect tenses (e.g., 'heeft doorgebroken') or as an adjective. Example: 'De artiest heeft eindelijk doorgebroken.' (The artist has finally broken through.) As an adjective: 'Een doorgebroken atleet is iemand die succesvol is geworden.' (A broken-through athlete is someone who has become successful.)
De onderzoeker hoopt met zijn nieuwe ontdekking een belangrijk obstakel te doorbreken.
Na veel tegenslag, wist het team eindelijk de negatieve spiraal te doorbreken.
Het is moeilijk om door de gevestigde orde te doorbreken in deze industrie.
De auteur brak door als een van de meest veelbelovende schrijvers van haar generatie.
Ze wil uit haar comfortzone doorbreken en nieuwe dingen proberen.
- Media and Entertainment News
- This is one of the most common places to hear 'doorbreken'. When a new artist, band, actor, or even a film or TV show achieves significant popularity and recognition, the media will often report that they have 'doorgebroken'. It signifies their transition from obscurity to mainstream success. You'll hear phrases like: 'De band heeft eindelijk doorgebroken met hun nieuwe album.' (The band has finally broken through with their new album.) or 'Deze jonge actrice is doorgebroken na haar rol in de populaire serie.' (This young actress broke through after her role in the popular series.)
- Business and Innovation
- In the business world, 'doorbreken' is used to describe companies or products that successfully overcome market challenges, competition, or technological hurdles to gain significant market share or recognition. For example: 'Het startup bedrijf wist door te breken in de sterk concurrerende softwaremarkt.' (The startup company managed to break through in the highly competitive software market.) It can also refer to a new technology that fundamentally changes an industry.
- Sports Commentary
- In sports, 'doorbreken' can describe a player or team successfully overcoming a strong defense, a period of bad luck, or a challenging opponent. A commentator might say: 'De aanvaller heeft de verdediging weten te doorbreken en scoort!' (The attacker has managed to break through the defense and scores!) It can also refer to an athlete breaking into a higher league or achieving a significant personal best after a struggle.
- Personal Development and Psychology
- When discussing personal growth, therapy, or overcoming psychological barriers, 'doorbreken' is very common. A therapist might say to a patient: 'Je moet door je angst heen proberen te breken.' (You must try to break through your fear.) Or someone might reflect on their own progress: 'Ik voel dat ik eindelijk door mijn blokkade heen ben gebroken.' (I feel like I have finally broken through my block.)
- Scientific and Academic Discourse
- In scientific contexts, 'doorbreken' refers to a significant discovery or a breakthrough in understanding a complex problem. Researchers might aim to 'doorbreken' a long-standing scientific puzzle or to 'doorbreken' a barrier in a particular field of study. For example: 'Dit onderzoek heeft het potentieel om een doorbraak te forceren in de behandeling van de ziekte.' (This research has the potential to force a breakthrough in the treatment of the disease.)
Het nieuws over de nieuwe film wist de aandacht van het publiek te doorbreken.
De manager sprak over de noodzaak om door de bureaucratie te doorbreken om efficiënter te werken.
De journalist probeerde de muur van stilzwijgen te doorbreken.
De coach moedigde de speler aan om door zijn twijfels te doorbreken.
Dit nieuwe medicijn kan een doorbraak betekenen in de strijd tegen kanker.
- Confusing with 'breken' (to break)
- The most common mistake for learners is to confuse 'doorbreken' with the simpler verb 'breken' (to break). While 'breken' means to shatter or snap something, 'doorbreken' specifically implies breaking *through* an obstacle or barrier, often with a sense of progress or achievement. Using 'breken' when you mean 'doorbreken' can change the meaning significantly. For example, 'Hij brak de muur' just means he broke the wall, possibly into pieces. 'Hij brak door de muur' means he broke through it, creating an opening.
- Incorrect Preposition Usage
- While 'doorbreken' is often used intransitively when talking about fame, learners might incorrectly add prepositions or objects where they aren't needed, or use the wrong ones. For instance, saying 'Hij brak door in de muziek' might be understood, but 'Hij brak door als muzikant' (He broke through *as* a musician) or simply 'Hij brak door' is more idiomatic for achieving fame. Be mindful of whether you are breaking *through* something specific (using 'door') or breaking out of a general state.
- Overuse in Literal Contexts
- While 'doorbreken' can literally mean breaking through a physical barrier, it's less common in everyday conversation for simple physical breaking than 'breken'. If you mean to smash a window, you'd likely say 'het raam gebroken'. 'Doorbreken' implies a more strategic or forceful penetration of a barrier. Overusing it for simple physical destruction can sound unnatural.
- Incorrect Conjugation or Past Participle
- Like any verb, incorrect conjugation is a potential pitfall. Ensure you are using the correct forms, especially the past participle 'doorgebroken' in perfect tenses. Forgetting the 'door-' prefix in the past participle, for example, saying 'hij heeft gebroken' when you mean 'hij heeft doorgebroken', is a clear error. Also, ensure you are using the correct auxiliary verb ('hebben' for 'doorbreken').
- Literal Translation from English
- English speakers might try to directly translate phrases like 'break a record' or 'break a habit'. While 'doorbreken' can sometimes be used for abstract concepts, specific verbs might be more appropriate. For 'break a record', you'd use 'een record verbreken'. For 'break a habit', 'een gewoonte afleren' or 'een gewoonte doorbreken' are possible, but the latter emphasizes overcoming a persistent pattern. Always consider the most natural Dutch phrasing.
Incorrect: De soldaat brak de vijandelijke linie.
Correct: De soldaat wist de vijandelijke linie te doorbreken.
Incorrect: Hij heeft de gewoonte gebroken.
Correct: Hij heeft zijn slechte gewoonte weten te doorbreken.
Incorrect: De film heeft de kassa gebroken.
Correct: De film heeft de kassa weten te doorbreken (meaning it was a huge box office success, breaking previous records).
Incorrect: De zanger heeft gebroken.
Correct: De zanger is doorgebroken na zijn laatste single.
Incorrect: Hij probeerde door de weg te breken.
Correct: Hij probeerde door de wegversperring te doorbreken.
- Doorbreken vs. Breken
- Breken (to break): This is a general verb for breaking something, causing it to separate into pieces or to stop functioning. It's often used for physical objects. Example: 'De vaas is gevallen en gebroken.' (The vase fell and broke.)
Doorbreken (to break through): This verb implies overcoming an obstacle, barrier, or resistance to achieve progress or success. It's about penetration and advancement. Example: 'De soldaten probeerden door de linies te doorbreken.' (The soldiers tried to break through the lines.) - Doorbreken vs. Succes hebben
- Succes hebben (to have success): This is a broader term that simply means to be successful. It doesn't necessarily imply overcoming a specific, difficult barrier. Example: 'De film had veel succes.' (The film had a lot of success.)
Doorbreken (to break through): This implies success achieved *after* overcoming significant challenges or obstacles. It suggests a breakthrough moment. Example: 'De jonge artiest hoopte eindelijk te doorbreken met haar nieuwe single.' (The young artist hoped to finally break through with her new single.) - Doorbreken vs. Ontwikkelen
- Ontwikkelen (to develop): This refers to a gradual process of growth or improvement. It's about becoming more advanced or complex over time. Example: 'Het land ontwikkelt zich snel.' (The country is developing rapidly.)
Doorbreken (to break through): This implies a more sudden or significant advance, often overcoming a specific hurdle that was preventing further development. Example: 'De wetenschap hoopt een nieuwe fase te doorbreken met deze ontdekking.' (Science hopes to break through a new phase with this discovery.) - Doorbreken vs. Slagen
- Slagen (to succeed, to pass an exam): This verb means to achieve a desired outcome or to pass a test. It's a general term for success. Example: 'Hij slaagde voor zijn examen.' (He passed his exam.)
Doorbreken (to break through): This is more specific to overcoming a barrier. While success is implied, the focus is on the act of overcoming resistance. Example: 'De ploeg slaagde erin om de finale te bereiken, maar moest eerst de tegenstander doorbreken.' (The team succeeded in reaching the final, but first had to break through the opponent.) - Doorbreken vs. Overwinnen
- Overwinnen (to overcome): This is a very close synonym, meaning to successfully deal with or gain control of a problem or difficult situation. Example: 'Ze moest haar angsten overwinnen.' (She had to overcome her fears.)
Doorbreken (to break through): While similar, 'doorbreken' often emphasizes the act of *breaking through* a barrier that was preventing progress, rather than just managing the difficulty. It can imply a more active and forceful penetration. 'Doorbreken' is often used for achieving fame or a significant leap forward, whereas 'overwinnen' can be more about managing ongoing challenges.
'Breken' is for shattering; 'doorbreken' is for piercing through.
'Succes hebben' is general; 'doorbreken' implies achieving success by overcoming a barrier.
'Ontwikkelen' is gradual; 'doorbreken' is a significant leap forward.
'Slagen' is general success; 'doorbreken' focuses on penetrating resistance.
'Overwinnen' is dealing with difficulty; 'doorbreken' is actively piercing through it.
How Formal Is It?
Curiosidade
The prefix 'door-' in Dutch is cognate with the English 'through' and the German 'durch', all indicating movement or penetration from one side to another. The verb 'breken' is related to the English 'break' and German 'brechen'. The combination thus strongly emphasizes the act of penetrating a barrier.
Guia de pronúncia
- Pronouncing 'door' like the English 'door' without the Dutch 'o' sound.
- Omitting the 'door-' prefix in the past participle 'doorgebroken'.
- Incorrect stress, placing it on the second syllable 'breken'.
Nível de dificuldade
Understanding 'doorbreken' in reading requires recognizing its literal and figurative meanings. Context is key to distinguishing between breaking a physical object and achieving a significant advance or fame. Texts discussing innovation, career success, or overcoming challenges will frequently use this word.
Using 'doorbreken' correctly in writing involves choosing the right context and potentially the correct preposition. Learners need to differentiate it from 'breken' and use it appropriately for abstract concepts like breaking through fear or achieving fame.
Speaking requires fluency and an understanding of idiomatic usage. Learners might hesitate to use it for abstract concepts, defaulting to simpler terms. Accurate pronunciation and stress are also important.
Listening comprehension involves picking up the nuances of 'doorbreken' in various contexts, especially when it's used figuratively. Its frequent use in media and discussions about success makes it important to recognize.
O que aprender depois
Pré-requisitos
Aprenda a seguir
Avançado
Gramática essencial
Using 'te' with infinitives
Hij probeert door te breken. (He tries to break through.) The infinitive 'doorbreken' is preceded by 'te' when it follows verbs like 'proberen', 'willen', 'kunnen', etc., indicating an intention or possibility.
Perfect Tense with 'hebben'
Ze heeft doorgebroken. (She has broken through.) 'Doorbreken' takes the auxiliary verb 'hebben' in the perfect tense. Ensure the past participle 'doorgebroken' is used correctly.
Separable Verbs
De muur brak hij door. (He broke through the wall.) In subordinate clauses or when the object is placed before the verb, the prefix 'door-' separates from 'breken'. However, in main clauses, it usually stays together: 'Hij brak de muur door.'
Use of Prepositions with 'doorbreken'
Hij brak door de muur heen. (He broke through the wall.) The preposition 'door' often indicates the barrier being penetrated. 'Heen' can sometimes be added for emphasis on the completion of the action.
Using 'als' with 'doorbreken'
Hij brak door als zanger. (He broke through as a singer.) The preposition 'als' is used to specify the role or capacity in which someone achieves their breakthrough.
Exemplos por nível
Het kind breekt de speelgoedauto.
The child breaks the toy car.
Simple past tense of 'breken'. Focus on 'breken', not 'doorbreken'.
De muur is oud.
The wall is old.
Basic adjective use. Not related to 'doorbreken'.
Hij eet een appel.
He eats an apple.
Simple present tense. Irrelevant to 'doorbreken'.
Zij loopt naar huis.
She walks home.
Simple present tense. Irrelevant to 'doorbreken'.
De deur gaat open.
The door opens.
Simple present tense. Focus on 'open', not 'doorbreken'.
Ik zie een vogel.
I see a bird.
Simple present tense. Irrelevant to 'doorbreken'.
Het is koud vandaag.
It is cold today.
Basic adjective use. Irrelevant to 'doorbreken'.
De hond blaft luid.
The dog barks loudly.
Simple present tense. Irrelevant to 'doorbreken'.
De jongen probeerde de deur te openen, maar hij kon hem niet doorbreken.
The boy tried to open the door, but he couldn't break it down.
Using 'doorbreken' in a slightly more challenging physical context. Focus on the inability to break through.
Na veel regen, brak de zon door de wolken heen.
After a lot of rain, the sun broke through the clouds.
Figurative use of 'doorbreken' for natural phenomena. Focus on 'door de wolken heen'.
Het team moest de verdediging van de tegenstander doorbreken.
The team had to break through the opponent's defense.
Using 'doorbreken' in a sports context. Focus on 'de verdediging'.
De artiest hoopt snel beroemd te worden.
The artist hopes to become famous soon.
This is related to the concept of 'doorbreken' in fame, but uses 'beroemd worden' instead.
Het was moeilijk om door de menigte te komen.
It was difficult to get through the crowd.
Implies difficulty in moving through, similar to 'doorbreken' but uses 'komen'.
De prijs van de benzine blijft stijgen.
The price of gasoline keeps rising.
Irrelevant to 'doorbreken'.
We gaan morgen naar de dierentuin.
We are going to the zoo tomorrow.
Irrelevant to 'doorbreken'.
Ze heeft een nieuwe fiets gekocht.
She has bought a new bicycle.
Irrelevant to 'doorbreken'.
De wetenschappers hopen met hun onderzoek een belangrijke barrière te doorbreken.
The scientists hope to break through an important barrier with their research.
Using 'doorbreken' in a scientific context. Focus on 'een belangrijke barrière'.
Na jaren van hard werken, is de zangeres eindelijk doorgebroken.
After years of hard work, the singer has finally broken through.
Common use of 'doorbreken' for achieving fame. Focus on the past participle 'doorgebroken'.
Het leger probeerde de verdedigingslinie van de vijand te doorbreken.
The army tried to break through the enemy's defensive line.
Military context. Focus on 'de verdedigingslinie'.
Ze voelde dat ze door haar angst heen moest doorbreken om te slagen.
She felt she had to break through her fear to succeed.
Psychological barrier. Focus on 'door haar angst heen'.
De nieuwe technologie heeft de markt weten te doorbreken.
The new technology managed to break through the market.
Business/technology context. Focus on 'de markt'.
Hij worstelt om zijn financiële problemen te overwinnen.
He struggles to overcome his financial problems.
Related concept 'overwinnen', but not 'doorbreken'.
De film was erg populair bij het publiek.
The film was very popular with the audience.
General popularity, not necessarily a breakthrough.
Het bedrijf heeft een stabiele groei doorgemaakt.
The company has undergone stable growth.
Gradual growth, not a breakthrough.
De politieke partij probeerde door het parlementaire debat te doorbreken met hun nieuwe voorstel.
The political party tried to break through the parliamentary debate with their new proposal.
Abstract political barrier. Focus on 'het parlementaire debat'.
Ondanks de kritiek, heeft de kunstenaar een unieke stijl weten te doorbreken.
Despite the criticism, the artist managed to break through with a unique style.
Artistic breakthrough. Focus on 'een unieke stijl'.
De economie toonde tekenen van herstel na een lange periode van stagnatie.
The economy showed signs of recovery after a long period of stagnation.
Recovery, implies overcoming stagnation but doesn't use 'doorbreken'.
Hij heeft zich moeten opwerken vanuit een moeilijke achtergrond.
He had to work his way up from a difficult background.
Similar to overcoming obstacles, but uses 'opwerken'.
De trainer moedigde de atleet aan om door zijn fysieke limieten te doorbreken.
The trainer encouraged the athlete to break through their physical limits.
Personal physical limits. Focus on 'door zijn fysieke limieten'.
De actrice heeft doorgebroken als een van de meest getalenteerde actrices van haar generatie.
The actress broke through as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
Achieving status. Focus on 'als een van de meest getalenteerde'.
De oude gewoontes van het dorp veranderden langzaam.
The old customs of the village changed slowly.
Gradual change, not a breakthrough.
De ontdekking van penicilline was een belangrijke mijlpaal in de geneeskunde.
The discovery of penicillin was an important milestone in medicine.
Milestone, implies progress but doesn't use 'doorbreken'.
De culturele conservatieven probeerden de opkomst van de nieuwe beweging te doorbreken.
The cultural conservatives tried to break the rise of the new movement.
Societal/cultural resistance. Focus on 'de opkomst van de nieuwe beweging'.
Het bedrijf slaagde erin om door de gevestigde monopolistische structuren te doorbreken en een eigen markt te creëren.
The company managed to break through the established monopolistic structures and create its own market.
Complex business/economic barrier. Focus on 'de gevestigde monopolistische structuren'.
De psycholoog hielp de patiënt om door diepgewortelde traumatische ervaringen heen te doorbreken.
The psychologist helped the patient to break through deeply rooted traumatic experiences.
Deep psychological trauma. Focus on 'diepgewortelde traumatische ervaringen'.
De ontdekking van de exoplaneet bood een kans om onze kosmologische modellen te doorbreken.
The discovery of the exoplanet offered a chance to break our cosmological models.
Scientific paradigm shift. Focus on 'onze kosmologische modellen'.
De kunstenaar gebruikte provocerende beelden om door de conventionele esthetiek te doorbreken.
The artist used provocative imagery to break through conventional aesthetics.
Artistic subversion. Focus on 'de conventionele esthetiek'.
Het project had tot doel de cyclus van armoede te doorbreken.
The project aimed to break the cycle of poverty.
Social issue, breaking a cycle. Very common use.
De onderhandelingen waren in een impasse geraakt.
The negotiations had reached an impasse.
Stalemate, implies a need to break through.
De nieuwe strategie moest de concurrentie overtreffen.
The new strategy had to surpass the competition.
Surpassing, not necessarily breaking through a barrier.
De onverwachte wending in het onderzoek leek de langverwachte doorbraak te doorbreken, maar leidde uiteindelijk tot een dieper begrip.
The unexpected turn in the research seemed to break the long-awaited breakthrough, but ultimately led to a deeper understanding.
Nuanced use, implying a momentary setback before a greater understanding. Focus on the complex temporal aspect.
Het regime trachtte met alle macht de interne dissidentie te doorbreken via propaganda en censuur.
The regime tried with all its might to break the internal dissent through propaganda and censorship.
Political control and suppression. Focus on 'de interne dissidentie' and the methods used.
De filosoof betoogde dat ware verlichting pas mogelijk is wanneer men door de illusies van de zintuiglijke wereld weet te doorbreken.
The philosopher argued that true enlightenment is only possible when one manages to break through the illusions of the sensory world.
Philosophical/spiritual context. Focus on 'de illusies van de zintuiglijke wereld'.
De kunstenaar experimenteerde met nieuwe technieken om de grenzen van de traditionele schilderkunst te doorbreken en een postmoderne esthetiek te vestigen.
The artist experimented with new techniques to break the boundaries of traditional painting and establish a postmodern aesthetic.
Artistic innovation and boundary-pushing. Focus on 'de grenzen van de traditionele schilderkunst'.
De economische crisis dwong de overheid om onorthodoxe maatregelen te nemen om de negatieve spiraal te doorbreken.
The economic crisis forced the government to take unorthodox measures to break the negative spiral.
Complex economic policy. Focus on 'de negatieve spiraal'.
De ontdekking markeerde een keerpunt in de geschiedenis van de wetenschap.
The discovery marked a turning point in the history of science.
Turning point, implies a breakthrough but doesn't use the verb.
Hij moest zijn beperkende overtuigingen overwinnen om zijn potentieel te realiseren.
He had to overcome his limiting beliefs to realize his potential.
Overcoming beliefs, close but 'doorbreken' might imply a more forceful act.
De samenleving evolueerde naar een meer inclusieve structuur.
Society evolved towards a more inclusive structure.
Evolution, gradual change.
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
— To achieve fame and recognition in the music industry.
Het is de droom van veel jonge muzikanten om door te breken in de muziekwereld.
— To become known or successful in a particular role or profession.
Na jaren van hard werk, brak ze eindelijk door als een succesvolle zakenvrouw.
— To actively try to achieve a significant advancement or discovery, often against resistance.
De wetenschappers voelden de druk om een doorbraak te forceren voor financiering.
— To overcome the difficulties and negative impacts of an economic crisis.
Het land probeerde door de financiële crisis heen te breken met nieuwe beleidsmaatregelen.
— To mark the beginning of a new era or period, often after a significant change or event.
De uitvinding van het internet heeft een nieuw tijdperk doorbroken.
— To escape a cycle of negative events or circumstances.
Het is essentieel om door de negatieve spiraal van armoede te breken.
— To challenge and overcome established norms, traditions, or power structures.
De jonge kunstenaar wilde door de gevestigde orde breken met zijn radicale werk.
— To speak when it is quiet, often to break tension or initiate conversation. (Similar to 'de stilte doorbreken' but more active).
Hij besloot door de stilte heen te praten en de vraag te stellen.
— To successfully enter and gain a significant presence in a market.
Het nieuwe product had moeite om door te breken in de verzadigde markt.
— To achieve something that was previously thought impossible.
De prestatie van de atleet leek door de grenzen van het mogelijke te breken.
Frequentemente confundido com
'Breken' means to break something into pieces, to shatter. 'Doorbreken' specifically implies breaking *through* an obstacle or barrier to achieve progress or recognition. For example, you 'breken' a glass, but you 'doorbreken' a defense.
'Overwinnen' means to overcome a difficulty or problem. While related, 'doorbreken' often implies a more active, forceful penetration of a barrier and a more significant leap forward, especially in contexts like achieving fame or making a scientific discovery.
'Slagen' means to succeed or pass an exam. It's a general term for achieving a goal. 'Doorbreken' is more specific to achieving success by breaking through resistance or barriers.
Expressões idiomáticas
— To achieve sudden and spectacular fame or success.
De jonge zanger brak door als een komeet na de release van zijn eerste single.
Figurative/Informal— To get someone to speak or reveal information when they have been unwilling to talk.
De ondervrager probeerde de muur van stilte te doorbreken met geduldige vragen.
Figurative/Formal— To make a determined effort to achieve a significant advancement or discovery, especially when progress is slow.
De wetenschappers voelden de druk om een doorbraak te forceren om hun onderzoek te rechtvaardigen.
Figurative/Formal— To escape from a monotonous and routine existence.
Hij nam een lange vakantie om door de dagelijkse sleur heen te breken en nieuwe energie op te doen.
Figurative/Informal— To escape from a generational pattern of poverty through education, opportunity, or intervention.
Educatieve programma's zijn cruciaal om de cyclus van armoede te doorbreken.
Sociological/Formal— To laugh heartily and uncontrollably.
Na het horen van de grap, kon ze niet stoppen met door de wolken heen te lachen.
Figurative/Informal— To mark the beginning of a new historical period or era.
De industriële revolutie heeft een nieuw tijdperk doorbroken.
Historical/Formal— To achieve something that was previously considered impossible or beyond human capability.
De prestatie van de astronauten leek door de grenzen van het mogelijke te breken.
Figurative/Formal— To continue to succeed or operate despite negative criticism.
De artiest bleef werken en door de kritiek heen breken, wetende dat haar werk waardevol was.
Figurative/Neutral— To challenge and overcome established power structures, traditions, or norms.
De revolutionaire beweging probeerde door de gevestigde orde te breken.
Political/FigurativeFácil de confundir
Both verbs involve the concept of 'breaking'.
'Breken' is general: to shatter, snap, or fracture. 'Doorbreken' is specific: to break *through* an obstacle, barrier, or resistance, implying progress or achieving fame. Example: 'Hij brak de vaas' (He broke the vase) vs. 'Hij brak door de verdediging' (He broke through the defense).
De soldaten braken de verdedigingslinie door. (Correct: doorbreken)
Both relate to dealing with difficulties.
'Overwinnen' is about successfully managing or controlling a problem or challenge. 'Doorbreken' is about actively penetrating a barrier to achieve a significant advance or recognition. 'Doorbreken' often implies a more dramatic or impactful outcome. Example: 'Hij overwon zijn angst' (He overcame his fear) vs. 'Hij brak door zijn angst heen' (He broke through his fear, implying a significant leap).
Ze overwon haar angst om te spreken. (Correct: doorbreken is stronger for a major change)
Related concepts of lack of progress.
'Stagnatie' refers to a state of no growth or development. 'Doorbreken' is the action of ending that stagnation and moving forward. Example: 'De economie verkeert in stagnatie' (The economy is in stagnation) vs. 'De nieuwe maatregelen moeten de economie doorbreken' (The new measures must break the economy out of stagnation).
Er is stagnatie in de markt. (The market is stagnant.) We moeten deze stagnatie doorbreken. (We must break through this stagnation.)
Directly derived from the verb.
'Doorbreken' is the verb (to break through), while 'doorbraak' is the noun (a breakthrough). You 'doorbreken' to achieve a 'doorbraak'. Example: 'De wetenschapper hoopt een doorbraak te forceren' (The scientist hopes to force a breakthrough).
De doorbraak was indrukwekkend. (The breakthrough was impressive.) De wetenschapper wist door te breken. (The scientist managed to break through.)
Both relate to achieving positive outcomes.
'Succes' is a general term for achieving a desired result. 'Doorbreken' implies achieving success *by overcoming specific barriers* or achieving a significant leap in recognition or progress. Example: 'De film had succes' (The film was successful) vs. 'De film brak door bij het publiek' (The film broke through with the audience, implying it overcame initial skepticism or competition).
Hij had succes met zijn bedrijf. (He had success with his company.) Hij wist door te breken met zijn product. (He managed to break through with his product.)
Padrões de frases
Subject + probeerde + te + doorbreken
De jongen probeerde de deur te doorbreken.
Subject + heeft + doorgebroken
De band heeft doorgebroken.
Subject + doorbreken + door + object
Hij brak door de menigte heen.
Subject + doorbreken + als + noun
Ze brak door als een getalenteerde actrice.
Subject + weten te + doorbreken
Het bedrijf wist door te breken in de markt.
Subject + doorbreken + door + abstract concept
De kunstenaar probeerde door de conventies te breken.
Subject + slaagt erin + te + doorbreken
Het team slaagde erin door te breken.
Subject + tracht + door + abstract concept + te + doorbreken
De regering tracht door de crisis heen te breken.
Família de palavras
Substantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Como usar
High, especially in media, business, and discussions about success.
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Using 'breken' instead of 'doorbreken' for achievements.
→
De artiest is doorgebroken.
'Breken' means to break an object. 'Doorbreken' means to achieve success or overcome an obstacle. Saying 'De artiest is gebroken' would imply the artist is broken, not successful.
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Forgetting the prefix 'door-' in the past participle.
→
Hij heeft doorgebroken.
The past participle is 'doorgebroken', not 'gebroken'. This is a common error when conjugating separable verbs.
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Using 'doorbreken' for simple breaking of objects.
→
Hij heeft het glas gebroken.
Use 'breken' for literally breaking an object into pieces. 'Doorbreken' implies penetrating a barrier or achieving a breakthrough.
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Incorrect preposition usage (e.g., 'doorbreken in' when 'doorbreken als' is needed).
→
Hij brak door als muzikant.
'Doorbreken als' means to break through *as* a certain role or profession. 'Doorbreken in' is more for entering a market or industry. The choice of preposition significantly alters the meaning.
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Confusing 'doorbreken' with general success ('succes hebben').
→
De film brak door bij het publiek.
'Succes hebben' is general. 'Doorbreken' implies success achieved by overcoming resistance or barriers, often leading to significant recognition.
Dicas
Stress Matters
Remember that the stress in 'doorbreken' falls on the first syllable: DOOR-bre-ken. This is crucial for sounding natural. Practice saying it aloud, emphasizing the first part.
Figurative vs. Literal
While 'doorbreken' can mean breaking a physical object, its most common and useful application is figurative: overcoming abstract barriers like fear, stagnation, or lack of recognition. Focus on these figurative uses for effective communication.
Context is King
The meaning of 'doorbreken' can shift based on context. Pay close attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation to understand whether it refers to fame, scientific discovery, overcoming a personal struggle, or a literal breach.
Separable Verb Awareness
Be aware that 'doorbreken' is a separable verb. While it often stays together in simple main clauses, the prefix 'door-' can separate in subordinate clauses or when the object comes first. This is an advanced point, but good to keep in mind as you progress.
Visualize the Breakthrough
Create a mental image of something solid being forcefully penetrated – like a ship breaking through ice or a person bursting through a wall. This visual can help you remember the core meaning of active overcoming.
Sentence Building
Try writing sentences using 'doorbreken' in different contexts: personal achievements, career goals, scientific advancements, or artistic recognition. This active practice solidifies your understanding.
Distinguish from 'Breken'
Always differentiate 'doorbreken' from 'breken'. If you mean to shatter an object, use 'breken'. If you mean to overcome an obstacle or achieve a breakthrough, use 'doorbreken'.
Explore Related Terms
Learn related terms like 'doorbraak' (breakthrough), 'overwinnen' (to overcome), and 'slagen' (to succeed). Understanding these nuances will enrich your vocabulary and communication skills.
Hear it in Action
Listen to Dutch news, interviews, or podcasts. You'll frequently hear 'doorbreken' used when discussing success stories, innovations, or overcoming challenges, giving you authentic examples.
Appreciate the Effort
In Dutch culture, 'doorbreken' often implies perseverance and hard work. When you use it, you're conveying not just success, but the effort involved in achieving it.
Memorize
Mnemônico
Imagine a knight in shining armor trying to 'doorbreken' (break through) a castle wall. The 'door' sound reminds you of 'doorway' or 'through', and 'breken' is like 'break'. So, breaking through a doorway.
Associação visual
Picture a solid wall with a clear 'break' in the middle, with someone triumphantly stepping through the opening. The 'door' part can be visualized as the path or opening created.
Word Web
Desafio
Try to describe a personal challenge you've overcome using the word 'doorbreken'. For example, 'I had to doorbreken my fear of public speaking to give this presentation.'
Origem da palavra
The word 'doorbreken' is a compound word formed from the Dutch prefix 'door-' (meaning 'through') and the verb 'breken' (meaning 'to break'). This literal construction clearly conveys the meaning of breaking through something.
Significado original: To break through.
GermanicContexto cultural
The word itself is neutral, but the context matters. Discussing breaking through societal barriers or personal traumas requires sensitivity and empathy.
In English, similar concepts are expressed by 'breakthrough', 'achieve success', 'overcome an obstacle', or 'make a name for oneself'. The Dutch 'doorbreken' often encapsulates the effort and the decisive moment of overcoming.
Pratique na vida real
Contextos reais
Achieving Fame/Career Success
- doorbreken in de muziekwereld
- doorbreken als artiest
- een doorbraak forceren
- doorgebroken zijn
Overcoming Personal Challenges
- door je angst heen breken
- door je beperkingen heen breken
- een patroon doorbreken
- door de sleur heen breken
Business and Innovation
- door de markt breken
- een nieuwe technologie doorbreken
- economische groei doorbreken
- door de gevestigde orde breken
Science and Research
- een wetenschappelijke doorbraak forceren
- door een probleem heen breken
- doorbraakonderzoek
- een theorie doorbreken
Sports
- door de verdediging doorbreken
- door de tegenstander heen breken
- een record doorbreken
Iniciadores de conversa
"Heb je wel eens het gevoel gehad dat je door een grote uitdaging heen moest breken?"
"Wat denk je dat er nodig is om als artiest door te breken in de huidige markt?"
"Kun je een voorbeeld geven van een wetenschappelijke doorbraak die de wereld heeft veranderd?"
"Hoe belangrijk is het om door oude gewoontes of patronen heen te breken voor persoonlijke groei?"
"Wat voor soort obstakels kunnen jonge bedrijven tegenkomen als ze proberen door te breken in een nieuwe markt?"
Temas para diário
Beschrijf een moment in je leven waarop je een belangrijke persoonlijke barrière moest doorbreken. Wat was de barrière en hoe heb je het aangepakt?
Stel je voor dat je een beroemde artiest bent. Hoe zou je het gevoel omschrijven van eindelijk doorbreken na jaren van hard werken en afwijzingen?
Welke maatschappelijke norm of welk patroon zou je graag willen doorbreken en waarom?
Denk aan een uitvinding of ontdekking die een echte 'doorbraak' betekende. Wat maakte het zo significant?
Hoe kun je proactief werken aan het doorbreken van je eigen beperkende overtuigingen om je doelen te bereiken?
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntas'Breken' is a general term for breaking something, like a glass or a bone. 'Doorbreken' specifically means to break *through* an obstacle, barrier, or resistance, often implying progress, achievement, or fame. For example, you 'breken' a window, but you 'doorbreken' a strong defense in sports or 'doorbreken' into the music industry as a new artist.
You use 'doorbreken' when an artist, musician, actor, or even a product achieves significant recognition and success after a period of being unknown or struggling. It signifies their transition from obscurity to prominence. For example: 'De band is eindelijk doorgebroken.' (The band has finally broken through.)
Yes, 'doorbreken' can be used for literal physical barriers, like a wall or a blockade. For instance: 'De tank probeerde door de verdedigingslinie te doorbreken.' (The tank tried to break through the defensive line.) However, its figurative use for abstract obstacles is more common and often more relevant for language learners.
The past participle of 'doorbreken' is 'doorgebroken'. It is used in perfect tenses (e.g., 'Hij heeft doorgebroken') and can also function as an adjective (e.g., 'een doorgebroken atleet').
Yes, 'door' is very common, as in 'door de muur heen breken' (to break through the wall). 'Uit' is used when breaking out of a situation or state, like 'uit haar routine breken' (to break out of her routine). 'Als' is used when breaking through *as* a certain profession or role, like 'doorbreken als zanger' (to break through as a singer).
Yes, 'doorbreken' is a separable verb. The prefix 'door-' separates from the base verb 'breken' in certain sentence structures, particularly in subordinate clauses or when the object precedes the verb in a main clause. For example: 'Hij brak de muur door.' (He broke through the wall.) In other main clauses, it often stays together: 'Hij doorbrak de muur.'
The noun form is 'doorbraak', which means 'a breakthrough'. It signifies the successful overcoming of an obstacle or a significant advancement. For example: 'De ontdekking was een belangrijke doorbraak.' (The discovery was an important breakthrough.)
Yes, 'doorbreken' is commonly used for habits or patterns. For example: 'Ze probeert haar slechte eetpatroon te doorbreken.' (She is trying to break her bad eating pattern.) It implies overcoming a persistent behavior.
'Ontwikkelen' means to develop, which is usually a gradual process of growth. 'Doorbreken' implies a more sudden or significant advance, often overcoming a specific barrier that was preventing further development. It's a leap forward rather than a slow progression.
If something 'doorbreekt' the market, it means it has successfully entered and gained significant traction or recognition in a market, often overcoming competition or initial challenges. It implies a successful market entry and establishment.
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Summary
Doorbreken means to actively break through an obstacle, barrier, or period of stagnation to achieve significant progress, success, or recognition. It's about overcoming resistance and making a breakthrough, whether literal or figurative, such as an artist breaking through into fame or a scientist making a breakthrough discovery.
- To break through an obstacle or barrier.
- Achieve significant progress or success.
- Often used for becoming famous or overcoming challenges.
- Implies effort and overcoming resistance.
Stress Matters
Remember that the stress in 'doorbreken' falls on the first syllable: DOOR-bre-ken. This is crucial for sounding natural. Practice saying it aloud, emphasizing the first part.
Figurative vs. Literal
While 'doorbreken' can mean breaking a physical object, its most common and useful application is figurative: overcoming abstract barriers like fear, stagnation, or lack of recognition. Focus on these figurative uses for effective communication.
Context is King
The meaning of 'doorbreken' can shift based on context. Pay close attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation to understand whether it refers to fame, scientific discovery, overcoming a personal struggle, or a literal breach.
Separable Verb Awareness
Be aware that 'doorbreken' is a separable verb. While it often stays together in simple main clauses, the prefix 'door-' can separate in subordinate clauses or when the object comes first. This is an advanced point, but good to keep in mind as you progress.
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aandacht
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