Definition

1. Verb phrase (intransitive): To stop functioning or operating correctly due to a mechanical or technical failure; to break down. This phrase specifically refers to a machine, engine, or mechanical system ceasing to work.
   • The engine broke down.
   • The machine malfunctioned.

Usage

• This phrase is used to describe a state of mechanical failure. It is often used with the verb "bị" to indicate something suffered a breakdown.
• It is commonly applied to vehicles, engines, appliances, and industrial machinery.
• Structure: Subject + bị + hỏng máy.
  • Xe tôi bị hỏng máy. (My car broke down.)
  • Máy tính hỏng máy giữa lúc tôi đang làm việc. (The computer crashed/malfunctioned while I was working.)

Examples

• (The photocopier suddenly broke down.)
• (If the engine breaks down, we will be stuck here.)
• (The train was delayed due to a breakdown.)

Advanced Usage / Nuances

• "hỏng máy" vs. "hỏng": While "hỏng" is a general term for something being broken or spoiled (e.g., - broken watch, - spoiled food), "hỏng máy" is specifically for mechanical/technical failures.
• It can be used figuratively in informal contexts to describe a person feeling extremely tired or unable to function.
  • Làm việc 12 tiếng liền, tôi gần như hỏng máy. (Working for 12 hours straight, I almost broke down.)

Variants and Related Words

• Hỏng hóc (n/adj): A more general noun or adjective for a fault, defect, or breakdown. Often used interchangeably with "hỏng máy" but can be broader.
  • Xe có hỏng hóc gì không? (Is there any breakdown/problem with the car?)
• Trục trặc (n): A glitch, hitch, or snag. It implies a problem or malfunction, often temporary or less severe than a complete "hỏng máy".
  • Hệ thống đang có chút trục trặc. (The system is having a slight glitch.)
• Sự cố (n): An incident, failure, or technical issue. This is a more formal term often used in technical or news contexts.
  • sự cố kỹ thuật (technical failure)

Synonyms

• Bị panne: (From French) To have a breakdown. Used in Vietnamese, especially in more formal or technical contexts.
• Ngừng hoạt động: To stop operating. This is a more neutral description, not necessarily implying a fault.
• Tê liệt: To be paralyzed. Can be used figuratively for systems breaking down completely.

Related Phrases / Collocations

• Sửa chữa hỏng máy: To repair a breakdown.
• Báo hỏng máy: To report a breakdown.
• Nguyên nhân hỏng máy: The cause of the breakdown.

1. Have a breakdown
   • Xe chúng tôi bị hỏng máy dọc đường
     Our car had a breakdown on the way