détruire
Les bombes ont détruit la ville entière.
The bombs destroyed the entire city.
To demolish or ruin something completely, often with violence or force.
Le feu a détruit la forêt.
The fire destroyed the forest.
Il a détruit son téléphone par accident.
He accidentally destroyed his phone.
Can be used both literally and metaphorically.
To ruin someone's reputation or plans.
Ses mensonges ont détruit sa réputation.
His lies destroyed his reputation.
Often used in emotional or social contexts.
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'détruire' for complete destruction, not partial damage.
Gold Rule
Conjugation
'Détruire' is a regular -re verb. Its past participle is 'détruit'.
Word Origin
From Old French 'destruire', from Latin 'destruere' (to destroy), from 'de-' (completely) + 'struere' (to build).
Usage Notes
Can be used in both physical and abstract contexts. Often implies complete destruction.