# undermining

/ˈəndɝˌmaɪnɪŋ/ (US) · /ˌʌndəmˈaɪnɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/undermining
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

describing something that slowly makes someone or something else weaker or less confident.

For teachers: characterised by the gradual weakening or subversion of the effectiveness, power, or ability of someone or something. Often used as a participial adjective to describe actions or behaviors that damage authority or stability.

## Examples

- His constant criticism had an undermining effect on the team.
- The manager's habit of ignoring his staff's suggestions was undermining the morale of the entire office.
- The spread of misinformation proved to be an undermining force in the democratic process, eroding public trust in established institutions and factual reporting.

## Usage notes

- Often appears before nouns like 'effect', 'influence', or 'tactic' to describe a process of gradual damage.

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