romper

Senses

1. 1.

   to break, to tear

   to cause something to break or tear apart physically

2. 2.

   to break off, to end

   to terminate a relationship, agreement, or connection

3. 3.

   to break through, to burst through

   to overcome a barrier or emerge suddenly

4. 4.

   to break (with tradition/pattern)

   to depart from established norms or expectations

Examples

• "Cuidado para não romper o tecido ao costurar."

  Be careful not to tear the fabric when sewing.

• "Eles decidiram romper o noivado depois de três anos."

  They decided to break off the engagement after three years.

• "O sol rompeu entre as nuvens pela manhã."

  The sun broke through the clouds in the morning.

Usage

Common in both physical and abstract contexts. Frequently used with relationships (romper com alguém = to break up with someone) and diplomatic ties (romper relações). The verb is regular (-er verb conjugation) and often appears in journalistic writing.