Basic Details
Word: Destructive
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Causing damage or harm; having a negative effect.
Synonyms: Damaging, harmful, ruinous
Antonyms: Constructive, helpful, beneficial
Idioms and Phrases
- Burning bridges: Making a situation impossible to return to; causing permanent damage to relationships. Example: "By ending his friendship over a small argument, he was burning bridges that he could have repaired."
- Lay waste: To destroy or ruin something completely. Example: "The storm laid waste to the small village, leaving nothing but debris behind."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The destructive storm caused severe flooding throughout the town, leaving families with damaged homes.
Example 2: Smoking can have destructive effects on health, leading to serious diseases.
Example 3: The company's careless practices proved to be destructive for the environment.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "destructive" comes from the Latin word "destructus", which means "to tear down"? This highlights its connection to damage and harm.
Famous Quote
"We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools." Martin Luther King Jr.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "destructive" mean?
a) Helpful
b) Causing damage
c) Decorative
d) Unexpected
Answer: b) Causing damage
2. Which of these is a synonym of "destructive"?
a) Helpful
b) Damaging
c) Useful
d) Hopeful
Answer: b) Damaging
3. Which of these is an antonym of "destructive"?
a) Harmful
b) Beneficial
c) Ruinous
d) Damaging
Answer: b) Beneficial
4. Which sentence uses "destructive" correctly?
a) She made a destructive cake for the party.
b) The destructive earthquake shook the entire city.
c) The painting was destructive and beautiful at the same time.
d) The puppy was very destructive with the toys.
Answer: b) The destructive earthquake shook the entire city.
5. Which idiom means to cause complete destruction?
a) Burning bridges
b) Lay waste
c) Gaining momentum
d) Going with the flow
Answer: b) Lay waste
