Synonyms for

Harming

Verb / ˈhɑ:rmɪŋ / Another word for harming — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To cause physical, emotional, or mental injury or damage to someone or something.

Synonyms & similar words

harm injure damage hurt wound maim impair weaken undermine endanger threaten jeopardize compromise corrupt poison taint pollute ruin destroy devastate blight

Synonyms by register

Formal

damaging injuring detrimental prejudicial

Informal

hurting bothering messing up wrecking

Literary

wounding afflicting scathing

Antonyms

helping aiding assisting benefiting supporting healing improving

Common collocations

  • harming the environment
  • harming yourself
  • harming others
  • harming the economy
  • harming the reputation
  • harming the chances
  • harming the project

Word family

noun harm
verb harm
adjective harmful
adverb harmfully

Usage note

Harming is the present participle of 'harm'. It often implies causing physical or psychological damage, or a negative impact on something's well-being or effectiveness.

Example sentences

  1. I don't want to harm anyone.
  2. Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me.
  3. She was worried that the chemicals could harm the environment.
  4. It's important not to harm animals.
  5. The medicine may harm your liver if you take too much.

Quotes

  • It is easier to forgive an enemy than to forgive a friend who has done you harm. - William Blake
  • Holding on to anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. - Buddha
  • The greatest harm can result from the best intentions. - Terry Goodkind

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