Definition
割断 is a resultative verb compound (结果补语) composed of 割 (to cut with a blade) and 断 (to break or sever). It means to cut off or sever something by slicing. Like many resultative compounds, you can split it with 得 or 不 to form potential complements: 割得断 means 'can be cut off', 割不断 means 'cannot be cut off'. The word is often used for physically cutting ropes, wires, or similar objects, and also metaphorically for severing connections or ties.
r.v.
to cut offsever (by cutting with a blade)
Examples
- 割断。Tā yòng dāo gē duàn le shéngzi.He cut the rope with a knife.
- ,。Zhè zhǒng xiàn hěn cū, gēnběn gē bù duàn.This kind of thread is very thick; it simply can't be cut off.
- 割断。Tāmen chèdǐ gē duàn le liánxì.They completely severed contact.
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