is kaput

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is kaput" is correct and usable in written English, particularly in informal contexts.
You can use it to indicate that something is broken, no longer functioning, or has come to an end. Example: "After years of use, my old laptop finally is kaput and won't turn on anymore."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

12.03am BST Couples is kaput.

The Guardian - Sport

That border is kaput," he added.

The New York Times

Fall down on any and the deal is kaput.

Independent

"My social life is kaput for now," she said.

The New York Times

I can't shoot them, because the meat market is kaput.

The New York Times

The circuit in my car key is kaput.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

"It's kaput.

The New Yorker

My mower was kaput.

The New York Times

The kapu system was kaput".

The New York Times - Books

Once it does, they're kaput.

The Guardian

No! The gods should be kaput.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is kaput", ensure the context makes it clear what exactly is broken or finished. For example, specify if it's a device, a relationship, or an idea that "is kaput".

Common error

Avoid using "is kaput" in formal or professional writing where a more straightforward term like "is broken" or "is non-functional" would be more appropriate. Using slang in a business report or academic paper could detract from your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is kaput" functions as an adjective phrase, where 'is' serves as a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective 'kaput'. According to Ludwig AI, it describes a state of being broken, non-functional, or finished.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is kaput" is a grammatically correct and relatively common way to express that something is broken, not working, or has come to an end. According to Ludwig AI, it is best suited for informal contexts and should be avoided in formal or professional writing. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources. Alternatives like "is broken" or "is out of order" may be more appropriate depending on the setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is broken

Replaces "kaput" with a more common and general term for something not functioning.

is out of order

Uses a more formal expression to convey that something is not functioning correctly.

is not working

Employs a straightforward and universally understood way to describe a non-functional item.

is finished

Indicates that something has come to an end, whether it's a project, relationship, or situation.

is done for

Suggests that something is beyond repair or has no chance of success.

is defunct

Uses a more formal term to describe something that is no longer in use or operation.

is non-operational

Replaces with a technical term.

has ceased to function

Indicates in a formal and somewhat verbose way that something is no longer working.

is inoperative

Uses a technical term to describe something that cannot be operated.

is bust

Uses a very informal British English term meaning broken or not working.

FAQs

How can I use "is kaput" in a sentence?

You can use "is kaput" to describe something that is broken, out of order, or no longer functional. For example, "My old phone "is kaput" and I need to buy a new one."

What can I say instead of "is kaput"?

You can use alternatives like "is broken", "is out of order", or "is not working" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "is kaput" in formal writing?

No, "is kaput" is generally considered informal and is better suited for casual conversation or informal writing. In formal contexts, use more professional terms like "is non-functional" or "is inoperative".

What's the origin of the word "kaput" in the phrase "is kaput"?

The word "kaput" comes from German and means "broken" or "destroyed". Using it in the phrase ""is kaput"" adds a slightly humorous or old-fashioned tone.