砍断 is a compound verb meaning 'to chop through' or 'to sever completely with a sharp, forceful blow', typically using an axe, machete, or similar bladed tool. The first character 砍 (kǎn) means 'to chop' or 'to hack', emphasizing the downward striking motion; the second character 断 (duàn) means 'to break' or 'to sever', indicating the result — complete separation of the object. Together, they convey both the action and its decisive outcome.

This verb is commonly used when describing physical cutting of thick, resistant materials — like tree trunks, ropes, bones, or animal carcasses — especially in contexts involving hunting, butchery, forestry, or emergency situations. It implies effort, force, and finality: the object is not merely nicked or partially cut, but cleanly divided. While it can be used literally for inanimate objects, it appears frequently in animal-related contexts, such as slaughtering livestock or processing game.