To sink something (e.g., a ship); to submerge an object under water.
潜水艦が敵艦を沈めたという報告があった。
There was a report that the submarine sank the enemy ship.
重い石を池に沈めて魚の餌場を作った。
We submerged heavy stones in the pond to create feeding spots for fish.
To lower oneself or an object (e.g., sit down and sink into a chair or sofa); to settle down into a seated or reclined position.
疲れてソファに体を沈めた。
I sunk into the sofa, exhausted.
彼女は静かに椅子に身を沈めた。
She quietly settled herself into the chair.
To floor or defeat an opponent; to decisively overwhelm someone in a contest or conflict.
彼のパンチ一発で相手を沈めた。
With a single punch he floored his opponent.
新製品で競合を沈めるつもりだ。
We plan to crush the competition with the new product.