C1verb2K

Shatter

UK /["/ˈʃætə(r)/","/ˈʃætəz/","/ˈʃætəd/","/ˈʃætərɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈʃætər/","/ˈʃætərz/","/ˈʃætərd/","/ˈʃætərɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to suddenly break into small pieces; to make something suddenly break into small pieces

In simple words: To break something into many small pieces.

Examples

  • The glass fell from the table and shattered into a thousand tiny pieces.
  • Her confidence was shattered after the harsh criticism.
  • The explosion shattered the windows of nearby buildings.
  • The news of his betrayal shattered their friendship irreparably.
  • The sunlight shattered the darkness as it streamed through the forest.
  • The evidence presented in court finally shattered the accused’s alibi.
  • She threw the vase down, causing it to shatter on the floor.
  • The scandal shattered the politician’s reputation completely.

Usage notes

Use 'shatter' when talking about glass or similar materials breaking. Avoid using it for things that break in a less dramatic way, like paper.

Grammar pattern

shatter + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'shatter' — imagine a glass being thrown and bursting into pieces.

Collocations

  • completely
  • into
  • shatter (something) into pieces
  • completely
  • abruptly
  • instantly

Synonyms

  • break
  • crack
  • fragment
  • splinter
  • smash

Antonyms

  • join
  • repair
  • unite

Common mistakes

  • Using 'shatter' with living things, which is not appropriate.
  • Confusing 'shatter' with 'break', since 'shatter' implies more violence.
  • Using 'shattered' incorrectly as a noun.