ENGLISH
REFERENCE

destroys

v.
A2 Elementary US //dɪˈstɹɔɪz// UK //dɪstɹˈɔɪz// de·stroys

v. to damage something so badly that it cannot be fixed or used anymore. You use this when something is completely ruined.

v. to damage an object or system so severely that it ceases to exist or cannot be repaired. Often used in the passive voice to describe the results of natural disasters or conflict.


SIMPLE

Fire destroys the old wooden building in minutes.

CONTEXTUAL

The heavy storm destroys the crops every year, causing significant financial loss for the local farmers.

COMPLEX

The documentary explores how invasive species can destroys the delicate balance of an island ecosystem by outcompeting native plants for resources.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

Pitfall

The storm destroys of the houseThe storm destroys the houseDestroy is a transitive verb; it takes a direct object immediately without the preposition 'of'.

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