Basic Details
Word: Devastate
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To cause great harm or destruction to something.
Synonyms: Destroy, Ruin, Wreck
Antonyms: Restore, Rebuild, Repair
Idioms and Phrases
- Dealt a devastating blow: Experienced a serious setback or disappointment. Example: "The team was dealt a devastating blow when their star player was injured before the final match."
- Devastated by the news: Significantly upset or saddened by information. Example: "She was devastated by the news of her friend's move to another country."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The storm devastated the coastal town, leaving many homes destroyed.
Example 2: After the fire, the once beautiful park was left devastated and covered in ashes.
Example 3: The loss of his favourite toy devastated him, and he cried for hours.
Fun Fact
The word "devastate" comes from the Latin word "devastare," which means "to lay waste." It was originally used to describe destruction caused by war and has evolved to include emotional harm and ruin as well.
Famous Quote
"The greatest tragedy in life is not death, but a life without purpose." Viktor Frankl, highlighting how a life filled with devastation and lack of purpose can be more painful than physical loss.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "devastate" mean?
a) To build something
b) To cause great harm or destruction
c) To clean something
d) To ignore something
Answer: b) To cause great harm or destruction
2. Which of these is a synonym of "devastate"?
a) Construct
b) Destroy
c) Create
d) Paint
Answer: b) Destroy
3. Which word is an antonym of "devastate"?
a) Wreck
b) Rebuild
c) Ruin
d) Trash
Answer: b) Rebuild
4. Which sentence uses "devastate" correctly?
a) The artist hoped to devastate her canvas with bright colours.
b) The earthquake will devastate the entire city.
c) He will devastate the cake at the party.
d) She tried to devastate her shoe collection.
Answer: b) The earthquake will devastate the entire city.
5. What does the idiom "dealt a devastating blow" mean?
a) To receive a nice gift
b) To face a significant setback
c) To succeed in a challenge
d) To enjoy a fun time
Answer: b) To face a significant setback
