Läjähtää

Läjähtää is a Finnish verb that describes the action of something collapsing, falling down, or giving way suddenly and completely. It often implies a lack of structure or support leading to this collapse. The word can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.

Literally, läjähtää can refer to physical objects falling apart. For example, a poorly built wall might läjähtää due to heavy rain, or an old, rotten tree could läjähtää in a strong wind. The emphasis is on the abrupt and total nature of the fall.

Figuratively, läjähtää is used to describe situations or abstract concepts failing. A business plan might läjähtää if it's not financially viable, meaning it collapses or fails. Similarly, a person's hopes or spirits might läjähtää when faced with overwhelming disappointment or stress. In these cases, it signifies a complete breakdown or loss of composure. The term often carries a sense of unexpectedness or a finality to the collapse. It is a common and versatile word in the Finnish language, conveying a strong image of something falling apart.