damage
n. · v.-
1 harm or injury (n.) B1 Intermediatephysical harm caused to something, which makes it less attractive, useful, or valuable.
physical or abstract harm that impairs the value, usefulness, or normal function of an object or person.
ExampleThe heavy rain caused serious damage to the roof of the old house.
ExampleThe structural damage to the bridge was more extensive than the engineers had initially predicted after the flood waters receded.
UsageUsually uncountable when referring to physical harm.
PitfallThe storm caused many damages to the roof.The storm caused much damage to the roof.In general usage, 'damage' is uncountable. Use 'damages' only in a legal context when referring to money paid as compensation.
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2 the cost (n.) C1 Advanced Informal Humorousthe price or cost of something, like a meal or a bill.
the total cost or expense incurred, typically for a service or purchase.
ExampleThat was a great dinner; now, what is the damage for the bill?
ExampleAfter the group had finished their expensive round of drinks, the host jokingly asked the waiter for the total damage.
Teacher's tipThis sense is used to make light of a high price; it is best avoided in professional or serious financial discussions.
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3 to harm something (v.) B1 Intermediateto break or spoil something so that it does not work well or look good.
to inflict physical or abstract harm upon an object, reputation, or system.
ExampleBe careful not to damage the screen when you clean your laptop.
ExampleThe scandal threatened to permanently damage the politician's reputation just weeks before the national election.
UsageTransitive verb; always requires a direct object.
From Middle English damage, from Old French damage, from Vulgar Latin *damnāticum from Classical Latin damnum. Compare modern French dommage. Largely displaced native Middle English scath (whence unscathed). Cognate with Spanish daño.
- Noundamage
- Adjectiveundamaged