destroy

To damage something so badly that it cannot be used or no longer exists.

• The fire destroyed our house.
• They destroyed the old bridge.
• The storm has destroyed several boats.

Similar words: ruin, wreck, demolish

Opposites: build, create

Common phrases: destroy a building, destroy evidence, destroy a forest, destroy a house

To make a quality, condition, or effect disappear completely.

• The lie destroyed my trust.
• Too much salt can destroy the delicate flavour.
• The changes destroyed the balance between work and family life.

Similar words: ruin, eliminate, remove

Opposites: restore

Common phrases: destroy confidence, destroy the balance, destroy someone’s trust

To cause someone such serious emotional pain or trouble that their life feels ruined.

• The loss almost destroyed him.
• Years of cruel treatment had destroyed her emotionally.
• He feared that another failure would destroy him.

Similar words: devastate, ruin, crush

Common phrases: destroy someone emotionally, destroy someone’s life