What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
damaging
Example
The storm caused a lot of damaging winds and rain. [damaging: adjective]
Example
His comments were damaging to her reputation. [damaging: gerund or present participle]
destructive
Example
The hurricane was so destructive that it wiped out entire towns. [destructive: adjective]
Example
His destructive behavior towards others led to his downfall. [destructive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Damaging is more commonly used than destructive in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can be used in a more neutral or objective way.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between damaging and destructive?
Both damaging and destructive can be used in formal and informal contexts, but destructive may be perceived as more formal due to its less frequent usage.
