rotura
“rotura” means “break” in Spanish (a physical separation into pieces).
break
Also: tear, breakage, crack
📝 In Action
La rotura de la tubería causó una inundación en el sótano.
A2The pipe break caused a flood in the basement.
El deportista tiene una rotura de fibras en la pierna.
B2The athlete has a muscle tear in his leg.
No podemos vender este plato por la rotura del borde.
B1We can't sell this plate because of the crack on the rim.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: rotura
Question 1 of 3
Which word would you use to describe a physical crack in a glass window?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Spanish verb 'romper' (to break), which comes from the Latin 'rumpere,' meaning to burst or break apart.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'rotura' the same as 'fractura'?
Mostly! 'Fractura' is usually used for bones in a medical sense, while 'rotura' can be used for bones, muscles, pipes, and almost any physical object.
Can I use 'rotura' for a romantic breakup?
It is better to use 'ruptura' for relationships. 'Rotura' implies a physical object has snapped or torn.
Is it 'rotura' or 'rompimiento'?
'Rotura' is much more common for physical things. 'Rompimiento' is very formal and usually refers to ending a formal agreement or alliance.