1.
to break down in tears, to collapse crying
To cry so intensely that one loses the ability to stand or maintain composure, often falling to the ground or slumping over. Implies a sudden, overwhelming wave of grief or emotion that physically overcomes the person.
彼女はその場で泣き崩れた。
She broke down in tears on the spot.
訃報を聞いて泣き崩れた。
She collapsed in tears upon hearing the news of the death.
遺族は棺の前で泣き崩れ、周りの人が支えた。
The bereaved family broke down in tears in front of the coffin, supported by those around them.
USAGE:
A compound verb combining 泣く (to cry) and 崩れる (to collapse/crumble). The word vividly conveys both the emotional intensity and the physical collapse that accompanies overwhelming grief. It is frequently used in news reports, novels, and dramatic narratives.
Almost always used in the context of grief, tragic news, or intense emotional shock. Rarely used for happy crying.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 泣く: to cry (general)
- 泣きじゃくる: to sob convulsively (intense but without the physical collapse)
- 号泣する: to wail, to cry loudly