destructive

Everyday

1. Destructive means causing a lot of damage or ruin. tree →
2. A destructive person or animal often breaks or ruins things. tree →

In the lessons

In science and geography, storms, floods, earthquakes and fires can be destructive. In everyday life, a puppy can be destructive and chew shoes. In stories, a destructive villain wrecks things. Phrases: «destructive storm», «destructive behaviour», «the destructive power of».

Examples

• The storm was very destructive and flattened many houses. tree →
• Our puppy is destructive when she is bored. tree →
• Earthquakes can be extremely destructive. tree →
• Throwing things in anger is destructive behaviour. tree →
• Some insects are destructive to crops. tree →
• The fire was the most destructive in the town's history. tree →
• Rabbits can be destructive in a vegetable garden. tree →
• THE OXEN once upon a time sought to destroy the Butchers, who practiced a trade destructive to their race. tree →

Note

From «destroy» and «destruction». Opposite: «constructive» (helpful, building up). «Constructive criticism» helps; «destructive criticism» only hurts. Not a number word, but «more destructive» compares damage.