What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consuming
Example
She has a consuming love for music and spends all her free time playing and listening to it. [consuming: adjective]
Example
The wildfire is consuming the forest at an alarming rate. [consuming: verb]
Example
I find myself consuming books on a variety of topics to expand my knowledge. [consuming: present participle]
destructive
Example
The hurricane was destructive, leaving behind a trail of destruction and devastation. [destructive: adjective]
Example
His destructive behavior towards others caused him to lose many friends. [destructive: adjective]
Example
The demolition crew used explosives to destroy the building in a destructive manner. [destructive: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Destructive is more commonly used than consuming in everyday language, as it is a more versatile word that covers a wider range of contexts. Consuming is less common and often used in specific contexts related to passion or resource usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between consuming and destructive?
Both consuming and destructive can be used in formal and informal contexts, but destructive is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations, including academic and technical writing.
