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Ruined: meaning, definitions and examples

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ruined

 

[ˈruːɪnd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to destroy

To reduce to a state of decay, collapse, or disintegration. To bring to a usually catastrophic or disastrous end. To put an end to the perfection or completeness of.

Synonyms

destroy, devastate, spoil, wreck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruined

When something is damaged so much that it cannot be repaired or returned to its original state. Often used with buildings, structures, or plans.

  • The ancient castle is now ruined
  • The surprise party was ruined when someone accidentally told the guest of honor
destroy

When something is completely broken or eliminated, often intentionally. Commonly used with physical objects, environments, or concepts.

  • The hurricane destroyed many homes
  • They destroyed all evidence of their wrongdoing
devastate

When something causes extreme emotional or physical damage, often used to describe large-scale events and has a very strong impact.

  • The earthquake devastated the entire city
  • She was devastated by the news of his passing
wreck

When something is severely damaged and left in a state of ruin, often used with vehicles or ships. Has a slightly more informal tone.

  • The car was a total wreck after the accident
  • The storm wrecked several boats in the harbor
spoil

When something is damaged in quality or value, often gradually or through negligence. Commonly used with food or plans that go awry.

  • The milk spoiled because it wasn't refrigerated
  • His behavior spoiled the evening for everyone

Examples of usage

  • The earthquake ruined several buildings in the city.
  • The excessive rain ruined the harvest this year.
  • The scandal ruined his political career.
Context #2 | Verb

to damage irreparably

To damage beyond repair, rendering useless or unsuitable for use. To spoil or impair the quality or efficiency of.

Synonyms

damage, harm, spoil, wreck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruined

Used when something is completely destroyed or cannot be repaired or restored.

  • The ancient city was ruined after the earthquake
  • His reputation was ruined by the scandal
damage

Refers to physical harm that makes something less functional or valuable.

  • The storm caused significant damage to the roof
  • Be careful not to damage the new phone
spoil

Typically used to refer to something becoming less enjoyable or worthwhile, often due to improper handling or conditions.

  • Don't leave the milk out, or it will spoil
  • The rain spoiled our picnic plans
wreck

Implies a more violent or thorough destruction, often used when talking about vehicles, ships, or major constructions.

  • The car was completely wrecked in the accident
  • The ship wrecked on the rocky shore
harm

Used in a broader sense to describe injury or negative effects, either physical, emotional, or ecological. Usually has a slight negative connotation.

  • Smoking can cause serious harm to your health
  • The false accusations did considerable harm to his career

Examples of usage

  • The spilled coffee ruined her favorite dress.
  • The virus ruined the computer's hard drive.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'ruina,' which means 'to fall down' or 'collapse,' highlighting the idea of deterioration.
  • Its use in English dates back to the 14th century, often referring to structures that were fallen or broken down.
  • Over time, 'ruined' expanded beyond buildings to represent anything that has been significantly impaired.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often speak of their 'ruined' lives, reflecting deep emotional or physical damage.
  • The concept of ruin features heavily in classic literature, exploring themes of loss, decay, and transformation.
  • Many novels use the idea of a 'ruined' character to symbolize deeper psychological or moral collapse.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In various cultures, ruined structures are frequently seen as powerful symbols of history and the passage of time.
  • Ruins are often tourist attractions, drawing people who are fascinated by what used to be.
  • Art often romanticizes ruins, capturing their beauty even in decay, such as in romantic landscapes of ancient architectures.

Psychology

  • The feeling of being 'ruined' can refer to a deep sense of failure or hopelessness, affecting mental health.
  • Psychological studies show that perceived 'ruins' in life—such as failed relationships—can lead to resilience-building if addressed.
  • Some therapeutic approaches frame personal ruin as a potential for renewal and change.

Architecture

  • Architectural ruins can tell stories of past civilizations, showcasing their craftsmanship and lifestyle.
  • Restoration efforts often focus on preserving ruins to maintain a connection to historical heritage.
  • Archaeologists study ruins to glean insights into ancient societies and their structures, revealing how they lived.

Translations

Translations of the word "ruined" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arruinado

🇮🇳 बर्बाद

🇩🇪 ruiniert

🇮🇩 rusak

🇺🇦 зруйнований

🇵🇱 zrujnowany

🇯🇵 破壊された

🇫🇷 ruiné

🇪🇸 arruinado

🇹🇷 mahvolmuş

🇰🇷 망가진

🇸🇦 مدمر

🇨🇿 zničený

🇸🇰 zničený

🇨🇳 毁坏的

🇸🇮 uničen

🇮🇸 eyðilagt

🇰🇿 қиратылған

🇬🇪 დანგრეული

🇦🇿 dağıdılmış

🇲🇽 arruinado

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,719 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.