destruir
destroy
Hacer que algo deje de existir o quede en muy mal estado.
Definition & meaning
Destruir means to destroy: to damage something so severely that it is ruined or no longer exists. It can also be used figuratively, as in destroying someone’s confidence or reputation.
Grammar & Word origin
- Part of speech: verb
- Conjugation: an irregular -ir verb. Its present-tense forms include destruyo, destruyes and destruye.
- Origin: from Latin destruere, meaning “to tear down” or “demolish.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
- arruinar — to ruin; it can refer to serious damage without complete destruction.
- demoler — to demolish, especially a building or other structure.
- aniquilar — to annihilate or wipe out completely; often stronger than destruir.
Antonyms
- construir — to build or construct.
- crear — to create or bring into existence.
- conservar — to preserve or keep in good condition.
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
El terremoto destruyó muchos edificios en la ciudad.verb
The earthquake destroyed many buildings in the city.
El tornado destruyó casas y autos en la ciudad.verb
The tornado destroyed houses and cars in the city.
La tormenta destruyó varios coches y edificios.verb
The storm destroyed several cars and buildings.
El fuego destruyó una gran parte del bosque.verb
The fire destroyed a large part of the forest.
El fuego destruyó el bosque.verb
The fire destroyed the forest.
La tormenta destruyó varios coches.verb
The storm destroyed several cars.
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