die Fruchtblase ist geplatzt
The German phrase for "water broke" is die Fruchtblase ist geplatzt.
This phrase is used to describe the rupture of the amniotic sac that occurs before or during childbirth.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of die Fruchtblase (the amniotic sac) and ist geplatzt (has burst or popped).
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use the literal translation das Wasser ist gebrochen by translating "water broke" directly. In German, the verb brechen (to break) is not used for the amniotic sac. Instead, you must use the verb platzen (to burst).
Did you know?
- The word Frucht in Fruchtblase refers to the 'fruit' of the womb, a poetic and archaic way of referring to the developing fetus or offspring.
- While platzen means 'to burst', it is also the word used when a balloon pops or when someone cannot stop themselves from laughing. It describes a sudden release of pressure.
- German differentiates between the amniotic sac Fruchtblase and the amniotic fluid Fruchtwasser. Because of this, you cannot say the 'water' popped, only the 'bubble' containing it.
Examples in context
- Ist Ihre Fruchtblase geplatzt?Has your amniotic sac burst?
- Schnell, die Fruchtblase ist geplatzt!Quick, the water broke!
- Ich glaube, die Fruchtblase ist geplatzt.I think my water broke.
Example conversation
Hannah is having contractions at home and calls Maximilian.
- HannahMaximilian, beeil dich, die Fruchtblase ist geplatzt!Maximilian, hurry, the water broke!
- MaximilianIch komme sofort, Hannah.I'm coming immediately, Hannah.
- HannahWir müssen jetzt ins Krankenhaus.We need to go to the hospital now.
- MaximilianKeine Sorge, ich bin gleich da.Don't worry, I'll be there in a moment.
