rompiendo
/rompjendo/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'breaking' is translated into Spanish as rompiendo.
The term rompiendo refers to the act of separating something into pieces by force. In more specific or serious contexts, other terms may be used: quebrantando is used for severe breaking or violations, while infringiendo is used specifically when breaking rules, policies or agreements.
Which one should you use?
quebrantando is a formal term that conveys a more severe sense of violation. Infringiendo is distinct because it specifically implies the breaking or infringement of rules or legal agreements.
How do you pronounce it?
/rompjendo/
Did you know?
- When a person's voice 'breaks' during puberty or from emotion, Spanish speakers call these occurrences gallos, which means 'roosters'.
- The formal word quebrantando is used for breaking laws or spirits and is closely related to the word quebracho, a tree with wood so hard it is almost impossible to break.
- While romper is for breaking objects, Spanish uses the word estallar or estallar en llanto to describe 'breaking down' in tears, which literally means to explode.
Examples in context
- rompiendo el vidrioBreaking the glass
- Los niños están rompiendo los juguetesThe children are breaking the toys
- Mi hermano rompió el plato al lavarlo.My brother broke the plate while washing it.
- Los manifestantes están quebrantando las reglas de la protesta.The protesters are breaking the protest rules.
- Está rompiendo la caja de madera.He is breaking the wooden box.
- El hielo se está rompiendo con el calor.The ice is breaking with the heat.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are in the kitchen.
- DanielMaría, ¿qué estás haciendo?María, what are you doing?
- MaríaEstoy rompiendo el chocolate para el pastel.I am breaking the chocolate for the cake.
- DanielTen cuidado con tus dedos.Be careful with your fingers.
- MaríaNo te preocupes, Daniel.Don't worry, Daniel.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
