Ruining: meaning, definitions and examples

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ruining

[ˈruː.ɪŋ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

ruin

To spoil, damage, or destroy something completely. To make something unsuccessful or of no value.

Synonyms

damage, destroy, spoil, wreck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ruining	Used when something is being drastically negatively transformed or when an experience is being significantly worsened. The rain is ruining our picnic He's ruining his career with that behavior
destroy	Implies complete and utter destruction, leaving nothing usable behind. Often used in dramatic contexts. The fire destroyed the entire building That mistake might destroy his chances of getting promoted
wreck	Often used when referring to physical destruction or serious damage, generally implying that what has been damaged is now useless or beyond repair. The ship was wrecked on the rocks He wrecked his car in the accident
spoil	Usually used when referring to making something less enjoyable or ruining food by letting it go bad. Don't let the milk sit out too long, it will spoil The loud music spoiled our quiet evening
damage	Typically used when referring to physical harm to an object or structure, but can also be applied to abstract concepts like reputation or relationships. The storm caused severe damage to the house The scandal could damage her reputation

Examples of usage

He was accused of ruining the company's reputation.
The heavy rain ruined our picnic.
She felt like she was ruining her chances of success.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'ruina,' meaning 'a fall' or 'collapse,' reflecting how something can fall apart.
It has been in use in English since the late 14th century, often relating to buildings or structures that have broken down.

Cultural References

In literature, the concept of ruining often plays a significant role, like in Shakespeare's tragedies where characters' actions lead to their downfall.
Films and stories frequently explore themes of ruin, showing how a character's choices lead to negative outcomes, creating tension and moral lessons.

Psychology

People often struggle with the fear of ruining their relationships, which can lead to anxiety and overthinking.
The idea that one small mistake can lead to ruin is a common cognitive distortion known as 'catastrophizing,' often addressed in cognitive therapy.

Environmental Science

Human activities, such as pollution and deforestation, are causing the ruin of natural ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss.
Efforts in conservation aim to reverse the ruination of habitats, emphasizing sustainable practices to protect the planet.

Technology

In the digital age, data loss can be described as ruining important files, prompting the need for backups to prevent future issues.
Software updates are often designed to prevent the 'ruining' of system performance by patching errors and improving functionality.

Translations

Translations of the word "ruining" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arruinando

🇮🇳 बर्बाद करना

🇩🇪 ruinieren

🇮🇩 merusak

🇺🇦 руйнування

🇵🇱 runiowanie

🇯🇵 台無しにする

🇫🇷 ruiner

🇪🇸 arruinando

🇹🇷 mahvetmek

🇰🇷 망치다

🇸🇦 تدمير

🇨🇿 ničení

🇸🇰 ničenie

🇨🇳 毁灭

🇸🇮 uničevanje

🇮🇸 eyðilegging

🇰🇿 бұзу

🇬🇪 დაშლა

🇦🇿 məhv etmək

🇲🇽 arruinando

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,444, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19441 parsonage
19442 effigy
19443 sweaty
19444 ruining
19445 exultation
19446 frigid
19447 anticipatory
...