Undermine: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when talking about weakening someone’s position, authority, or credibility gradually or insidiously.

• His constant criticism undermined her confidence.
• The report was intended to undermine the chairman's authority.

Weaken is a more general term that applies to making someone or something less strong or ineffective over time.

• The illness weakened his immune system.
• Economic sanctions have weakened the country's economy.

Subverting involves intending to overthrow or undermine an established order, usually in a political or social context. It often implies a systematic and covert effort.

• Her writings aim to subvert the traditional views on gender roles.
• The organization was accused of attempting to subvert the government.

This term is used when referring to deliberately destroying, damaging, or obstructing something, especially for political or military advantage. It has a strong negative connotation.

• The workers sabotaged the factory equipment during the strike.
• There are allegations that the project was sabotaged by rival companies.

Erode applies to the gradual destruction or reduction of something, usually in the context of physical objects or abstract concepts like trust or morale.

• The coastline is being eroded by the sea.
• Years of neglect have eroded our public services.

Typically used when someone or something is gradually sabotaging or reducing the effectiveness, confidence, or authority of another.

• Constantly criticizing her in front of the team will only undermine her authority.
• Leaking confidential information to the press undermines the company's reputation.

Used to describe the gradual destruction, removal, or deterioration of something, often due to natural processes or long-term effects.

• The constant waves eroded the coastline over the years.
• Trust between coworkers can erode if there is persistent gossip.

Used to describe making something or someone less strong or effective, either physically, structurally, or metaphorically.

• The strong wind weakened the old tree, causing it to fall.
• His illness has weakened him considerably over the past few weeks.

Often used in a commercial or competitive context to describe offering a lower price than a competitor or to remove the value behind something subtly or indirectly.

• The new store undercut all its competitors by offering lower prices.
• Her rude comments during the meeting undercut his efforts to present the project positively.