kaputt

§ Understanding "kaputt"

The German word kaputt is an adjective that you'll hear and use a lot. It means something is broken, out of order, or no longer working. Think of it as a general term for anything that isn't functioning as it should. It can apply to objects, machines, and even sometimes abstract ideas, though we'll focus on the concrete uses here.

DEFINITION

Broken, out of order, or no longer working.

§ Basic Sentence Structure with "kaputt"

You'll typically use kaputt with the verb sein (to be). The structure is quite straightforward:

• Subject + Verb (sein) + kaputt

Here are some common examples:

The car is broken.

My phone is broken.

The washing machine is out of order.

§ Using "machen" with "kaputt"

You can also use kaputt with the verb machen (to make or to do) to express that someone or something broke something. In this case, kaputt often functions as a separable prefix, but it's usually written as two separate words.

• Subject + Verb (machen) + Object + kaputt (at the end of the clause)

I broke my phone. (Literally: I made my phone broken.)

The ball broke the window.

§ "kaputtgehen" - To break (itself)

Another common way to express something breaking, especially if it breaks by itself or without direct human action, is with the verb kaputtgehen. This is a separable verb, meaning the prefix kaputt- separates from the verb stem -gehen in many sentence structures.

• Subject + Verb (gehen) + kaputt (at the end)

My computer broke (down). (Perfect tense of kaputtgehen is ist kaputtgegangen.)

The heating often breaks down.

§ Adjective or Adverb?

Kaputt primarily functions as a predicative adjective, meaning it describes the state of the noun and comes after the verb. It does not typically decline like other adjectives when used this way. For example, you wouldn't say "ein kaputtes Auto" in the same way you would say "ein rotes Auto" (a red car) in spoken, everyday German. While grammatically possible in some specific contexts (like attributive use), it's far more common and natural for beginners to stick to the predicative use with sein.

§ Understanding 'kaputt' vs. Alternatives

When you're learning German, you'll find that many words can seem to mean the same thing. 'Kaputt' is a good example. While it generally means 'broken' or 'out of order,' there are other words you might encounter that have similar meanings. Knowing the nuances will help you sound more natural and precise.

Let's look at some common alternatives and when to use them instead of 'kaputt'.

§ 'Kaputt' vs. 'Zerbrochen' (Broken into Pieces)

Definition

'Zerbrochen' specifically means something is broken into pieces, often implying a more severe or visible break. Think of glass or ceramics.

While 'kaputt' can also describe something broken into pieces, 'zerbrochen' emphasizes that aspect. 'Kaputt' is more general and can refer to something that simply isn't working anymore, even if it's visually intact.

§ 'Kaputt' vs. 'Defekt' (Defective)

Definition

'Defekt' is often used for technical devices or machinery that have a flaw or malfunction, but might still be repairable. It implies a fault rather than total destruction.

'Defekt' and 'kaputt' are often interchangeable, especially when talking about electronics or machines. However, 'defekt' carries a slightly more formal and technical connotation, suggesting a flaw in its function.

§ 'Kaputt' vs. 'Zerstört' (Destroyed)

Definition

'Zerstört' means something is completely destroyed, ruined, or annihilated. It implies a much higher degree of damage than 'kaputt'.

Use 'zerstört' when something is beyond repair or has suffered catastrophic damage. 'Kaputt' is for everyday breakage or malfunction.

§ 'Kaputt' vs. 'Müde' (Tired) or 'Erschöpft' (Exhausted)

Definition

This is a colloquial use of 'kaputt' to describe a person who is very tired or worn out. 'Müde' is the standard word for tired, and 'erschöpft' means exhausted.

When talking about people, 'kaputt' is informal and means utterly exhausted, 'worn out.' For a simple state of being tired, use 'müde'.

§ Summary of Usage

Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right word:

• Kaputt: General term for broken, out of order, not working. Also, informally, very tired (for people).
• Zerbrochen: Broken into pieces (e.g., glass).
• Defekt: Defective, a fault or malfunction in technical items.
• Zerstört: Completely destroyed, ruined.
• Müde/Erschöpft: Tired / Exhausted (for people, standard terms).

Don't overthink it at the A1 level. 'Kaputt' is your go-to word for most situations where something isn't working or is broken. As you progress, you'll naturally pick up the nuances of the other terms.