Synonyms for

Destroys

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

Definition

To cause great damage or harm to something or someone.

Synonyms & similar words

destroy demolish destruct ruin putdown annihilate demolish ruin wreck devastate crush obliterate erase dismantle extinguish eliminate smash shatter break overthrow terminate abolish quash

Synonyms by register

Formal

annihilates demolishes obliterates ruins

Informal

trashes wreck busts up tears down

Literary

rends shatters unmakes

Antonyms

creates builds constructs forms makes establishes founds

Common collocations

  • destroys evidence
  • destroys property
  • destroys the environment
  • destroys the economy
  • destroys hope
  • destroys a building
  • destroys relationships

Word family

noun destruction
verb destroy
adjective destructive
adverb destructively

Usage note

The verb 'destroys' implies complete ruin or annihilation. It is often used in contexts of physical damage or the complete failure of something.

Example sentences

  1. The fire destroys the entire forest.
  2. The earthquake destroys the city.
  3. The tornado destroys the houses.
  4. The flood destroys the bridge.
  5. The bomb destroys the airplane.

Quotes

  • The smallest seed of faith is better than the largest fruit of happiness. - Henry David Thoreau
  • The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. - Eleanor Roosevelt
  • “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

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