English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Broken heart
Meaning
The idiom "broken heart" refers to a feeling of intense sadness or disappointment caused by the loss of love, family, or any significant relationship. It is used to describe a situation that has left someone emotionally devastated, and they may struggle to find joy in their daily activities or relationships.
Usage
- After finding out his girlfriend had cheated on him, John felt like he had a broken heart.
- When she lost her mother, Sarah's heart was broken, and she struggled to cope with the loss for months.
- The company went bankrupt, leaving many employees without jobs and broken hearts.
- The team lost the championship game, and their fans were left with broken hearts.
- After years of trying to have a baby, Emily finally gave up and felt like her heart was broken.
Roots and History
The idiom "broken heart" dates back to the 17th century and is believed to have originated from the poet John Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost." In the poem, Satan describes his fall from grace as a broken heart. Over time, the phrase has become synonymous with intense sadness and emotional devastation.
Synonyms in English
- Heartbroken
- Devastated
- Shattered
- Crushed
- Despondent
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: "romper el corazón" (to break the heart)
- French: "cœur cassé" (broken heart)
- Italian: "cuore rotto" (broken heart)
- German: "fragenkopf" (heartbroken)
- Mandarin Chinese: "心泻流涕" (tears streaming down the face)