Sabotaging: meaning, definitions and examples

Sabotaging is typically used to describe the act of deliberately damaging or obstructing someone's plans, efforts, or actions. It has negative connotations and is often used in the context of workplace conflicts or competitive environments.

• She was caught sabotaging her colleague's presentation.
• They are accused of sabotaging the company's new project.

Undermine is used to describe an act of gradually weakening someone's efforts, authority, or position. It is generally used in less direct or aggressive contexts compared to sabotage, and can apply to various settings including personal relationships, politics, or work environments.

• His constant criticism served to undermine her confidence.
• The scandal undermined the public's trust in the politician.

Sabotage refers to the act of deliberately destroying or disrupting something. It can be used in various contexts, including business, warfare, and politics. The word conveys a strong sense of intentional harm.

• The military base was vulnerable to sabotage.
• There was an attempt to sabotage the peace talks.

Saboteur describes a person who commits sabotage. It is often used to identify individuals who intentionally cause damage or disrupt activities, usually in secret.

• The authorities arrested the saboteur responsible for the factory fire.
• During the war, saboteurs damaged the enemy's supply lines.

Subvert means to undermine the power and authority of an established system or institution. It is often used in political, social, or organizational contexts and has a negative connotation.

• The rebels sought to subvert the government.
• His actions were intended to subvert corporate policies.

Used when someone manipulates or meddles with something, often in a secretive or unauthorized manner, typically not with beneficial intentions.

• The lock was tampered with, indicating a break-in.
• Please do not tamper with the electrical system.

Applied when someone's actions are causing difficulties or hindering something, usually without malicious intent.

• Don't interfere with the work of the technicians.
• His constant questions interfere with my concentration.

Used when something is causing a disturbance or interruption, especially in a less direct or aggressive way than sabotage.

• The construction noise disrupted our meeting.
• Weather conditions can disrupt travel plans.

Refers to the act of deliberately destroying, damaging, or obstructing something, often with malicious intent.

• The employee was caught trying to sabotage the project.
• They planned to sabotage their competitor's equipment.