B2adjectiveemotionsmedia
US/ˈhɑːrtˌbreɪ.kɪŋ/
UK/ˈhɑːtˌbreɪ.kɪŋ/
causing very strong sadness and sympathy
In context
It was heartbreaking to watch the family leave their home after the flood.
The film tells a heartbreaking story of two friends separated by war.
Selling her late father's farm was a heartbreaking decision for her.
Words that go with heartbreaking
adjective + noun
- heartbreaking storyHer heartbreaking story moved the whole audience.
- heartbreaking newsWe received heartbreaking news about our neighbor last night.
- heartbreaking decisionLeaving the village was a heartbreaking decision.
- heartbreaking lossThe team suffered a heartbreaking loss in the final minute.
- heartbreaking sceneThe last scene of the film is heartbreaking.
adverb + adjective
- absolutely heartbreakingThe photos from the disaster were absolutely heartbreaking.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I am heartbreaking about the news.Correct: I am heartbroken about the news.