Words / B1

di-STROY/dɪˈstrɔɪ/

To destroy is to damage something so badly that it cannot be used or no longer exists: destroy a building / evidence / hope. Damage leaves it harmed but still there; ruin is close and often about plans or holidays; demolish is mainly for buildings on purpose. Destruction is the noun; destructive is the adjective. Destroyed is stronger than broken.

Meaning

To damage something so badly that it cannot be used or does not exist any more.

Examples

• “The fire destroyed several houses.”
• “The flood destroyed most of the crops.”
• “One careless click can destroy a file.”

Good to know

destroy + object. Noun: destruction. Weaker: damage. Buildings on purpose: demolish.

Near in meaning

ruin

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