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كسر (kasr) is a verb meaning 'to break' or 'to fracture,' and can also function as a noun meaning 'a break' or 'a fracture.' It is one of the most common verbs in Arabic and is used both literally (breaking physical objects) and figuratively (breaking rules, hearts, or spirits). The word carries nuances of destruction, violation, or damage depending on context.
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كسرت الكوب عندما سقط من يدي.
Kasart al-kōb 'indamā saqat min yadi.
I broke the glass when it fell from my hand.
لا تكسر وعد أعطيته لصديقك.
Lā taksir wa'ad a'ataytahu li-sadīqika.
Don't break a promise you made to your friend.
كسر الموجة على الشاطئ بقوة.
Kasr al-mawjah 'alā ash-shāti' bi-quwwah.
The wave broke on the beach forcefully.
كسرت قلبها عندما تركتها وحدها.
Kasart qalbahā 'indamā taraktahā waḥdahā.
I broke her heart when I left her alone.
الطبيب قال أن العظم كسر بشكل بسيط.
At-tabīb qāl anna al-'aẓm kasr bi-shakl basīt.
The doctor said the bone broke in a simple fracture.
In Arabic culture, breaking things is often symbolic—breaking bread together represents unity and hospitality, while 'breaking one's word' is considered a serious moral failing. The word كسر is deeply embedded in Arabic literature and poetry, often used metaphorically to describe emotional pain, social discord, or the violation of sacred bonds. Understanding this verb helps learners appreciate the nuanced emotional language in Arabic communication.
Remember that كسر can be used both literally and figuratively in Arabic, much like English 'break.' Pay attention to the object of the verb—كسر البيت (he broke the house), كسر العهد (he broke the covenant), كسر الصمت (he broke the silence). The past tense is كسر (he broke) and the present tense is يكسر (he breaks), so mastering the conjugation patterns will help you use this common verb accurately in conversation.
The Arabic word كسر (kasr) is one of the most frequently used verbs in the Arabic language. It primarily means 'to break' or 'to fracture,' and can be used both as a verb and as a noun. When used as a noun, it refers to 'a break' or 'a fracture.' This versatile word appears across all levels of Arabic proficiency and is essential for anyone learning the language.
Literal Usage: In its most straightforward sense, كسر describes the physical action of breaking something. For example:
Figurative Usage: Beyond physical breaking, كسر is extensively used in metaphorical and emotional contexts:
This figurative usage is particularly important in Arabic literature, poetry, and everyday conversation, where emotional and social meanings are paramount.
كسر follows the regular verb pattern in Arabic. Here are the essential conjugations:
Past Tense (Perfective):
Present Tense (Imperfective):
Understanding the word family around كسر enriches your vocabulary:
In Arab culture, the concept of breaking carries deep symbolic meaning. Breaking bread together (كسر الخبز) is a sign of unity and hospitality, representing shared meals and family bonds. Conversely, 'breaking one's word' or 'breaking a promise' is viewed as a serious moral and ethical failure that damages trust and honor.
The phrase كسر الجليد (break the ice) has become widely used in modern Arabic, particularly in business and social contexts, to describe the act of initiating conversation or making a connection with someone new. Similarly, كسر الصمت (breaking the silence) has profound emotional weight in Arabic, often referring to speaking truth in difficult situations or speaking up after prolonged silence.
Several idiomatic expressions use كسر:
When learning and using كسر, keep these points in mind:
Context Matters: Always consider whether the usage is literal or figurative. The same verb can describe physical damage or emotional hurt.
Common Collocations: Certain nouns frequently pair with كسر. Learn phrases like "كسر البيت" (break the house), "كسر العهد" (break the covenant), and "كسر الوعد" (break the promise).
Reflexive Form: The verb can also appear in the reflexive form انكسر (to break, to be broken), which is particularly common in passive constructions: "الزجاج انكسر" (The glass broke).
Negation and Modal Verbs: This verb works well with modal verbs and negation: "لا تكسر!" (Don't break!), "يجب أن لا تكسر الوعد" (You shouldn't break the promise).
While كسر is the most common verb for 'break,' other verbs convey related meanings:
Words with opposite meanings include:
The verb كسر (kasr) is an essential part of Arabic vocabulary that extends far beyond its literal meaning of breaking physical objects. Its use in emotional, social, and idiomatic contexts makes it a word that every Arabic learner must master. By understanding both its literal and figurative applications, recognizing its various grammatical forms, and learning the cultural significance behind common phrases using this word, you'll develop a more nuanced and authentic command of the Arabic language.