Verbs for Destruction and Damage

to cause damage to something in a way that it no longer exists, works, etc.

Environmental pollution often destroys delicate ecosystems and harms wildlife.

to completely destroy or to knock down a building or another structure

The old factory was demolished to make way for a new development.

to damage or destroy something severely

The storm had the power to wreck houses along the coast.

to severely damage or destroy something

The machine malfunctioned and began to mangle the fabric.

to cause severe damage or harm to something, usually in a way that is beyond repair

The flood had the power to ruin the foundation of the house.

to harm, damage, or ruin something

Heavy rain during the outdoor event threatened to spoil the carefully arranged decorations.

to completely destroy something

The powerful explosion was so intense that it seemed to obliterate the entire building.

to end or destroy something entirely

The authorities took swift action to extinguish the criminal organization.

(of a construction) to fall down suddenly, particularly due to being damaged or weak

The old building collapsed after years of neglect and structural decay.

to completely destroy a building, city, etc.

The old factory was deemed unsafe, so they decided to raze it and build a new facility.

to destroy completely

The ruthless dictator sought to exterminate any opposition to his regime.

to completely destroy or remove something

Conservationists are working to extirpate the invasive plant species threatening the native flora.

to attack or destroy, especially with a sudden force or energy

The superhero used his laser vision to zap the enemy's defenses.

to cause something or someone to fall to the ground

The boxer knocked down his opponent with a powerful uppercut.

to destroy something completely

The decision to tear down the old stadium was met with mixed reactions.

to demolish a structure or building, typically by pulling it apart or taking it down piece by piece

The city council decided to pull the old theater down to make way for a new mall.

to burn something completely until it turns into ashes

The waste management facility incinerates household trash to reduce its volume.

to destroy someone or something completely

The powerful explosion threatened to annihilate the entire building.

to burn or explode as a result of a chemical reaction with oxygen

The fuel will combust when it reaches a high enough temperature.

to destroy completely, especially by fire

The intense heat from the explosion burned out the surrounding vegetation.

to physically harm something

The storm's strong winds and hailstones damaged the roof of the house.

to have something such as clothes, shoes, etc. on your body

She decided to wear a beautiful dress to the party.

things that are related to air and sky such as temperature, rain, wind, etc.

I check the weather forecast every morning to plan my outfit.

to cause something to become weak or less effective

Prolonged exposure to loud noise can impair hearing over time.

to walk with force and weight

The crowd trampled through the field, leaving deep footprints and broken plants.

to cause severe destruction or damage

The hurricane ravaged the coastal town, leaving behind a trail of destruction.

to forcibly push something against a surface until it breaks or is damaged or disfigured

He accidentally stepped on and crushed the delicate flower in the garden.

to damage or destroy something, usually deliberately

The vandals trashed the abandoned building, breaking windows and spray-painting walls.

to break with a sudden and loud impact, often causing damage

The window crashed under the force of the heavy stone.

to come into sudden and forceful contact with another object or person

The two cars collided at the intersection, resulting in a minor accident.