Spoiling: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when referring to something that is being excessively pampered or treated in a way that can lead to negative consequences.

• Giving a child everything they want can lead to spoiling them
• The milk is spoiling because it was left out of the fridge for too long

This word conveys a sense of completely destroying or rendering something unusable or worthless.

• The rain ruined our picnic plans
• She feared the scandal would ruin her reputation

This is appropriate when referring to physical harm or destruction to an object or structure.

• The storm caused significant damage to the roof
• Make sure you handle the package carefully to avoid any damage

Use this when referring to a decrease in function or ability, typically related to health or performance.

• Drinking alcohol can impair your ability to drive
• His vision is impaired due to the accident

Appropriate in situations where gradual weakening or sabotaging is involved, often related to authority, confidence, or stability.

• Gossiping about team members can undermine their trust
• His constant criticism undermined her confidence

Used when referring to the process of food or other perishable goods becoming unsuitable for consumption. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• The milk is spoiling because it has been left out in the sun.
• Fruits and vegetables can start spoiling if they are not stored properly.

This is used for the process of organic matter breaking down, usually in food, plants, or wood. It can be negative or neutral but generally implies a more advanced stage than 'spoiling'.

• The apples started to rot after being left in the damp storage room.
• Wood can rot if it is exposed to water for an extended period.

Commonly used for natural processes involving organic matter breaking down. It can be used for food, teeth, wood, etc. Generally has a neutral to slightly negative tone.

• Tooth decay is a common problem among children who eat a lot of sweets.
• The old house shows signs of decay in its wooden beams.

Often used in a medical or scientific context to describe the process of decomposition, especially for animal tissue. It has a strong negative connotation.

• The carcass began to putrefy within a couple of days.
• If left untreated, the wound could putrefy and lead to a severe infection.