destroy
Definitions
To damage something so badly that it no longer exists or cannot be repaired
摧毁，毁坏（到无法修复或不复存在的程度）
To ruin or put an end to something abstract, such as hope, a reputation, or a relationship
毁掉，断送（希望、名誉、关系等抽象事物）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedde- (down, reversal) + struere (build) = "to un-build." To destroy is to take apart what was stacked together. The Latin destruere became Old French destruire and then English destroy, wearing the root down to -stroy — but the noun destruction keeps the original Latin spelling.
Root struct still carries 18 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.destroy completely彻底摧毁
- 2.destroy buildings毁坏建筑物
- 3.destroy evidence销毁证据
Example Sentences
- 1.
The fire destroyed the entire factory in less than an hour.
- 2.
One careless comment can destroy years of trust.
- 3.
They had to destroy all the contaminated food.
Easily Confused
destroy vs damage — damage harms something partially (it can often be repaired); destroy means it's ruined past saving. A storm can damage a roof, or destroy a whole house.