Devastating: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used to describe events or actions that cause great emotional pain or have severe, wide-reaching negative consequences.

• The news of the accident was devastating for the whole community
• The devastating impact of the storm destroyed hundreds of homes

Refers to things that cause harm, damage, or ruin, often physically, but can also apply to actions or habits.

• The fire was extremely destructive, leaving nothing but ashes
• His destructive behavior ruined many relationships

Used when something causes severe damage or ruin, often with a long-lasting effect, and often carries a negative connotation.

• The ruinous economic policies led to widespread poverty
• Her ruinous habits eventually left her bankrupt

Describes events or outcomes that result in serious harm, damage, or failure, often with a focus on the resulting negative effects.

• The launch was a disastrous failure, costing the company millions
• The decision to cut funding had disastrous repercussions

Commonly used for events that cause massive and often sudden damage or destruction, often on a large scale.

• The earthquake had catastrophic effects on the entire region
• Failure to address the issue could lead to catastrophic consequences