🖥️💔😔

How to Say ‘Unfortunately, the device is broken.’ in German

Das Gerät ist leider kaputt.

dahs geh-RAYT ist LY-der kah-PUHT

[dahs geh-RAYT ist LY-der kah-PUHT]

🇩🇪 In Germany: "The machine is broken" is a classic way to steer passengers toward cash. Offering to wait while they retry, or asking for a receipt, often makes it work again.

Phrase Breakdown

Das Gerät

dahs geh-RAYT

The device

'Gerät' is neuter, so it takes 'das'. Stress the second syllable: ge-RÄT. The 'ä' sounds like a long 'e' in 'bed'.

Example

Das Gerät ist neu.

The device is new.

Words in this phrase

Das

[dahs]

the

Definite article used with the noun 'Gespräch.'

Example

Das Gespräch hat mir neue Einblicke gegeben.

The conversation gave me new insights.

Gerät

[geh-RAYT]

device

Neuter noun for a machine or appliance, here a card terminal.

Example

Das Gerät funktioniert nicht.

The device doesn't work.

ist leider kaputt.

ist LY-der kah-PUHT

is unfortunately broken.

'leider' means 'unfortunately' and sounds like 'lie-der'. 'kaputt' means 'broken'. Stress the second syllable: ka-PUTT.

Example

Mein Handy ist leider kaputt.

My phone is unfortunately broken.

Words in this phrase

ist

[ist]

A form of the verb 'sein' used for singular subjects.

Example

Für viele Bewerber Ist ein gutes Teamklima entscheidend.

For many applicants, a good team climate is crucial.

leider

[LY-der]

unfortunately

Used to introduce bad or disappointing news politely.

Example

Leider habe ich kein Bargeld.

Unfortunately I don't have cash.

kaputt

[kah-PUHT]

broken

An adjective meaning something is broken or not working.

Example

Kaputt ist heute leider das Kartenlesegerät.

Broken today is unfortunately the card reader.

Guides for German learners

Duolingo vs Pimsleur: Tapping on a Screen or Talking Out Loud?Duolingo vs Pimsleur: five minutes of tapping versus thirty minutes of speaking. What each is good at, what each costs, and which to pick for your goal.

Get the Full Learning Experience

This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.

Pronunciation Feedback

AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Lessons for Your Situation

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Get Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

“Berlin bureaucracy requires real German. This app got me from zero to handling my Anmeldung appointment in three weeks. My coworkers couldn’t believe it.”

Emma L., 27, UX Researcher

“Relocated to Munich with my family. The everyday scenarios — grocery shopping, doctor visits, school meetings — are exactly what we needed to settle in.”

Marcus J., 40, Engineer

“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”

Alex M., 42, Software Engineer