Spanish Conversation · Level 54
75 words
Spanish word
romper
Pronunciation
IPA/romˈpeɾ/
Meaning
- verbbreak
Example
No rompas tu promesa.
Don't break your word.
More examples
En la reunión, intenté romper el hielo con un chiste.
At the meeting, I tried to break the ice with a joke.
Core concept
A cracked ceramic mug.
Common phrases
romper una promesa
break a promise
romper el hielo
break the ice
Similar words
quebrar: Crack or shatter solid objects by applied force, often leaving fragments.
partir: Split an object into two or more parts, usually along a line or seam.
rasgar: Tear fabric or paper by pulling, creating a jagged opening or slit.
estropear: Damage an object's function so it becomes unusable or spoiled.
Definition in Spanish
Separar o dañar algo que estaba entero o unido mediante fuerza, acción o incumplimiento, aplicable a objetos, promesas o relaciones.
Word origin
From Latin rumpere 'to break' through Vulgar Latin *rompere into medieval Spanish, giving modern romper and the past participle roto.
Usage tips
- Romper takes a direct object for intentional breaking or for breaking a promise, romperse is used when something breaks by itself, and romper con alguien means to end a relationship.