What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consumed
Example
I consumed a whole pizza by myself for dinner. [consumed: past tense]
Example
The factory consumed a lot of energy to operate its machinery. [consumed: past participle]
Example
She consumed all the books in the library on the topic. [consumed: past tense]
destroyed
Example
The hurricane destroyed the entire town. [destroyed: past tense]
Example
He destroyed the old car with a sledgehammer. [destroyed: past tense]
Example
Her reputation was destroyed by the scandal. [destroyed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Consumed is more commonly used than destroyed in everyday language. Consumed is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while destroyed is less common and usually reserved for more severe situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between consumed and destroyed?
Both consumed and destroyed can be used in formal and informal contexts, but destroyed is more likely to be used in serious or dramatic situations.
