destroy
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈstrɔɪ/
KK: /dɪˈstrɔɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To cause great damage or ruin to something, making it unusable or non-existent.
Example
The storm will destroy the old building if it continues to get worse.
Tense Forms
Past: destroyed
Past Participle: destroyed
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how greed can destroy relationships?
Absolutely, it can really tear people apart.
Yeah, sometimes it's surprising how quickly it can happen.
For sure, being aware of it is the first step to avoiding that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ruin
wreck
shatter
Antonyms
build
create
construct
transitive verb
Definition
To cause something to cease to exist or to be completely ruined or damaged.
Example
The storm destroyed many homes in the area.
Tense Forms
Past: destroyed
Past Participle: destroyed
Conversation
Did you hear about the storm last night?
Yeah, it was crazy! I saw that it could destroy homes.
I can't believe how powerful nature can be.
Root Explanation
Destroy → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "struere" (meaning to build). The word "destroy" means to take down or dismantle something that has been built.
Memory Tip
Think of taking something 'down' ('de-') that has been 'built' ('struere') — that's why destroy means to dismantle or ruin.
Visually Confused Words
stroy
predestroy