Destroy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
destroy
[dษชหstrษษช ]
Definitions
in war
Cause severe and extensive damage to something. Completely ruin or spoil something.
Synonyms
demolish, devastate, obliterate, ruin, wreck.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| destroy |
General use when causing something to be completely ruined or rendered unusable.
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| ruin |
Used when something is damaged to the point of not being usable or enjoyable, often due to neglect or mishap. Can also refer to financial destruction.
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| devastate |
Used when referring to something causing severe emotional distress or extensive physical damage. Often has a negative emotional impact.
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| demolish |
Commonly used when talking about buildings or structures being intentionally torn down.
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| wreck |
Often used to describe severe damage, particularly to vehicles or buildings, though can also refer to spoiling plans or events.
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| obliterate |
Suggests total destruction to the point of leaving no trace. Often dramatic or exaggerated.
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Examples of usage
- The bombing campaign aimed to destroy enemy infrastructure.
- The hurricane destroyed the coastal town.
physically
Put an end to the existence of something by damaging or attacking it.
Synonyms
annihilate, eliminate, eradicate, exterminate, extinguish.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| destroy |
To completely ruin, damage, or demolish something. Used for both tangible and intangible objects.
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| eliminate |
To remove or get rid of something entirely, can be used in a less destructive sense.
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| exterminate |
To kill off or destroy completely, usually used in the context of pests or enemies. Has a harsh, negative connotation.
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| annihilate |
To completely and utterly destroy something, often used in a more dramatic or powerful context.
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| eradicate |
To completely remove or destroy something bad or harmful, often used in contexts of diseases or social issues.
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| extinguish |
To put out a flame or fire, or to end something that was once active. It can be used for literal or metaphorical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- He destroyed the evidence before the police arrived.
- The fire quickly destroyed the old building.
emotionally
Ruin someone emotionally or spiritually.
Synonyms
break, crush, damage, shatter, wound.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| destroy |
Use when referring to complete ruin or elimination of something.
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| shatter |
Use when something breaks into numerous small pieces, often violently.
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| crush |
Use when something is compressed or deformed by pressure, often resulting in a loss of its original shape.
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| break |
Use when something is separated into pieces, usually due to a force or pressure.
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| wound |
Use when referring to physical injury to a living being or the infliction of emotional pain.
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| damage |
Use when something is harmed or impaired, usually not completely ruined.
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Examples of usage
- The betrayal destroyed her trust in others.
- The loss of her pet destroyed her happiness.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Many stories use destruction as a powerful theme, symbolizing loss and change in a character's journey.
- Writers often contrast destruction with creation, highlighting the delicate balance between the two.
- Classic literature like 'Frankenstein' explores the consequences of destruction, showcasing ethical dilemmas.
Psychology
- Some psychological theories suggest that the urge to destroy can stem from feelings of frustration or anger.
- Destruction can also serve as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to express emotions through acts of defiance.
- Research indicates that people may find a sense of relief or empowerment in the act of destroying things in controlled environments.
Pop Culture
- Movies and video games often feature themes of destruction, like 'Transformers' or 'Minecraft,' where players can both create and destroy.
- Destruction as a special effect in films can create dramatic visuals, captivating audiences and enhancing storytelling.
- The phrase 'destroy the competition' is commonly used in sports and business, illustrating a drive for success.
Environmental Science
- Habitat destruction poses significant threats to biodiversity and is driven by human activities like deforestation and urbanization.
- Pollution is a form of environmental destruction, affecting air, water, and soil quality.
- Conservation efforts focus on preventing destruction and restoring damaged ecosystems for future generations.
Origin of 'destroy'
Main points about word origin
- Originates from the Latin word 'destros,' meaning 'to tear down' or 'unbuild.'
- The prefix 'de-' indicates removal, and 'struere' means to build, so the entire word suggests un-building.
- In its first recorded use in English during the 14th century, it referred specifically to physical destruction.
The word 'destroy' originated from the Latin word 'destruere', which means 'to pull down, demolish'. The term has been used in English since the 13th century, evolving to its current meaning of causing severe damage or putting an end to something. Over time, 'destroy' has been commonly associated with acts of war, natural disasters, and emotional devastation.
See also: destroyer, destruction, indestructible.