Synonyms for

Damage

Verb / ˈdæmʌdʒ / / ˈdæmɪdʒ / Another word for damage — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Harm or injury that reduces value or usefulness

Synonyms & similar words

harm legalinjury equipmentcasualty wrong hurt scathe terms price impairment harm injury ruin impairment destruction loss detriment wreckage devastation havoc deterioration mar defacement breakage mutilation disfigurement degradation spoilage erosion wear

Synonyms by register

Formal

impairment detriment harm injury

Informal

mess up wreck bust screw up

Literary

bane scathe blight

Antonyms

benefit aid assist help repair heal improve advantage

Common collocations

  • cause damage
  • suffered damage
  • extensive damage
  • minor damage
  • irreparable damage
  • prevent damage
  • assess damage
  • repair damage

Word family

noun damage
verb damage
adjective damaged

Usage note

While 'damage' can refer to physical harm, it's also commonly used for non-physical harm, such as to reputation or finances. Avoid using 'damage' as a verb when referring to a person being injured; 'injure' or 'harm' are more appropriate.

Example sentences

  1. The flood caused a lot of damage to the houses.
  2. The accident caused some damage to the car.
  3. The earthquake caused extensive damage to the buildings.
  4. He apologized for the damage he caused to the vase.
  5. The hurricane left a trail of damage behind.

Quotes

  • The damage was done. The question was whether it could be undone.
  • Sometimes, the damage is done. It can't be fixed. All we can do is move on.
  • It only takes a split second to smile and forget, yet to someone that needed it, it can last a lifetime. We should all smile more often.

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