gâcher

Gâcher is a French verb with a primary meaning of to spoil, ruin, or waste. It can be used in various contexts, referring to the deterioration of food, the destruction of something valuable, or the squandering of an opportunity or resource.

In the context of food, gâcher often implies that something has become unfit for consumption due to spoilage or improper preparation. For example, one might say "J'ai gâché le gâteau en le brûlant" (I spoiled the cake by burning it).

The verb can also describe the act of damaging or ruining something physical. This could range from damaging an object to vandalizing property. "Il a gâché la peinture de la voiture" (He ruined the car's paint) is an example of this usage.

Beyond physical objects, gâcher can refer to wasting something intangible, such as time, effort, or an opportunity. "Ne gâche pas ton talent" (Don't waste your talent) illustrates this abstract application. Similarly, one might say "C'est dommage de gâcher une si belle journée" (It's a shame to waste such a beautiful day).

The concept of "gâcher" highlights the idea of loss or destruction, whether it be of material goods, potential, or even emotional states. The resulting state is often one of imperfection or diminished value.