broken window
[ˈbroʊkən ˈwɪndoʊ]
nounpl: broken windows
janela quebrada
1. A window pane that has been shattered or fractured, typically as a result of impact, accident, or vandalism
The broken window in the abandoned house let in cold drafts.
A janela quebrada na casa abandonada deixava entrar correntes de ar frio.
2. In criminology and urban sociology, a symbol of neglect and disorder that may encourage further crime and deterioration in a neighborhood
The broken window theory suggests that visible signs of disorder invite more crime.
A teoria da janela quebrada sugere que sinais visíveis de desordem convidam mais crime.
The term 'broken window' gained significant cultural prominence in the United States through the 'Broken Windows Theory' introduced in 1982 by criminologists Wilson and Kelling, which influenced policing strategies in major cities like New York. In Brazil, while the literal term is widely understood, the criminological theory is less culturally embedded in common discourse, though it has influenced some urban policy discussions.
NYC Slang
broken window (literal); in NYC policy context, often referenced in discussions of stop-and-frisk and quality-of-life enforcement
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