‘破嗓子’ literally means ‘broken voice’ — ‘破’ (pò) means ‘broken’, ‘damaged’, or ‘worn out’; ‘嗓’ (sǎng) refers specifically to the throat or vocal cords; and ‘子’ (zi) is a common noun suffix that adds a colloquial, concrete quality. Together, the term describes a voice that sounds rough, raspy, strained, or weak due to overuse, illness, shouting, or fatigue — not a medical diagnosis, but a vivid, everyday description of vocal discomfort.

This expression is informal and frequently used in spoken Mandarin, especially when commenting on someone’s speaking or singing ability after prolonged use. It carries a slightly sympathetic or humorous tone — for example, praising a singer’s stamina while joking about their ‘broken voice’. It’s rarely used in formal writing or clinical contexts, where terms like ‘声音嘶哑’ (shēngyīn sīyǎ) would be preferred.