WordGarden.iodestruction
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /dɪstrˈʌkʃən/
US
- /dɪˈstrəkʃən/
Meanings
Noun
the act or result of damaging something so badly that it is ruined or no longer exists
Beyond the definition
Destruction isn't just about things falling apart; it's the complete ruin of something—whether it's a physical object like a building, an abstract idea, or even trust. Think of a powerful storm leaving a path of destruction in its wake, or a villain plotting the destruction of a city in a movie. It implies a significant and often irreversible loss. Sometimes destruction is sudden and violent, like an earthquake; other times, it's slow and hard to notice, like the destruction caused by neglect or disease. The word carries heavy weight—rarely does something good come directly from destruction, even if new things eventually grow from the ruins.
Destruction refers to the act of causing severe damage or ruin to something. It goes beyond simple breakage; it often suggests something being torn down, shattered, or wiped out. While we often picture physical destruction—a building collapsing or a forest fire raging—the term extends far beyond the tangible.
You can witness the destruction of a relationship through betrayal, the destruction of hope by disappointment, or even the self-destruction that stems from harmful habits. The scale of destruction can vary wildly: a child accidentally ruining a sandcastle is a world away from the widespread destruction caused by war.
Historically, "destruction" often carried religious connotations, linked to concepts of apocalypse and divine judgment. Today, it is used in many contexts—from natural disasters ("The hurricane left a trail of destruction") to deliberate acts ("The arsonist was charged with malicious destruction of property") to metaphorical losses ("His career suffered irreparable destruction after the scandal").
It is important to note that while usually negative, destruction can sometimes be a necessary precursor to creation. Demolishing an old, unsafe building might pave the way for constructing something new and improved. However, the core meaning always revolves around loss, ruin, and the breaking down of something previously whole. When you hear "destruction," think beyond just broken pieces—consider the complete unraveling of order, form, or existence.
Examples
- 1
Natural disaster
The earthquake caused widespread destruction across the city.
- 2
Fire damage
News reports showed the destruction of homes, schools, and shops after the fire.
- 3
War damage
The war left a trail of destruction in villages near the border.
- Phraseleave a trail of destruction
cause serious damage in many places as you move
- 4
Property crime
He was charged with destruction of property after he damaged several parked cars.
- Domaindestruction of property
damaging or breaking things that belong to someone
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Legal evidence
Police are investigating possible destruction of evidence in the case.
- Domaindestruction of evidence
getting rid of evidence so it cannot be used
- 6
Self-harm
Years of debt and addiction pushed him toward self-destruction.
- 7
Emotional harm
Constant public criticism can lead to the destruction of a person's confidence.
- 8
Weapons
The debate focused on the threat of weapons of mass destruction.
- Domainweapons of mass destruction
weapons that can kill many people and cause very large damage
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- cause destruction
- widespread destruction
- mass destruction
- path of destruction
Word family
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Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- destructionnoun
Forms
- destructionspluralnoun