Destructive
Adjective
UK
/dɪˈstrʌk.tɪv
US
/dɪˈstrʌk.tɪv
Definition
Causing serious harm, damage, or ruin.
Example
"Their destructive habits ruined both their career and personal life."
"Constant destructive criticism can hurt a child’s confidence and self-esteem."
"Wars are among the most destructive forces in human history, leaving physical and emotional scars behind."
Explanation
Destructive refers to something that causes harm, damage, or breaks things down—either physically, emotionally, or socially. It can describe behaviors, habits, storms, or even criticism that ruins instead of helping. For example, destructive criticism focuses only on faults and hurts the person receiving it. The word highlights harm over help, and often carries long-term negative consequences.