Bane: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that causes great distress or annoyance, often in a dramatic or literary manner.

• Homework is the bane of my existence
• His arrogance was the bane of his career

Describes a toxic substance that can cause harm or death, often used metaphorically to describe something that has a harmful effect.

• Jealousy was like poison to her relationship
• The factory was accused of leaking poison into the river

Specifically refers to a poisonous substance, particularly one that is produced by living cells or organisms and can cause disease.

• The snake's bite releases a dangerous toxin
• Certain mushrooms contain natural toxins

Refers to a spell or a swear word, often used to express irritation or to describe something that brings bad luck or misfortune.

• The old witch put a curse on the village
• Losing his job felt like a curse on his family

Used to describe something that causes continuous trouble or suffering over a long period, often in a severe or widespread manner.

• The city was plagued by crime
• She was plagued with doubts about her decision

Used to describe something that causes continuous trouble or distress.

• The bane of my existence is the constant noise from the construction site.
• Sweet treats are my bane when trying to maintain a healthy diet.

Best used to describe a decline or loss of success, often because of a major weakness or mistake.

• Their relentless ambition was ultimately the company's downfall.
• The political scandal led to the politician's downfall.

Used to indicate complete destruction or severe damage that makes recovery impossible or very difficult.

• The city lay in ruin after the war.
• His gambling addiction led to his financial ruin.

Refers to something that ruins or harms someone, especially when it results from their own actions or mistakes.

• His arrogance was his undoing.
• The company's rapid expansion was eventually its undoing.

Appropriate for major, often unexpected, disasters or events causing great harm or damage.

• The earthquake was a catastrophe, leaving the city in ruins.
• Losing the championship game in the final second was a catastrophe for the team.

Used to describe something causing persistent trouble or harm, often in a figurative sense.

• Procrastination is the bane of productivity.
• The bureaucracy was the bane of his career.

A general term for someone who has killed, can be used in both a literal and figurative sense.

• The police are searching for the killer.
• She is known as a killer negotiator in the business world.

Specifically refers to someone who has unlawfully and intentionally killed another person.

• The convicted murderer was sentenced to life in prison.
• The detective was determined to find the murderer.

Specifically refers to a person who kills someone, typically a prominent person, often for political reasons or money.

• The assassin was caught shortly after the attack.
• The story revolves around a skilled assassin hired to take out a dictator.

An older or more dramatic term for someone who kills, often used in fantasy or historical contexts.

• The dragon slayer became a legend in the village.
• He is known as the slayer of serpents in ancient tales.