Definitions
decimate
- Describing the destruction of a large portion of something, such as a population or an army. - Referring to a significant reduction in numbers or size. - Talking about a severe impact on a group or organization.
- Referring to the complete elimination of something, such as a disease or a problem. - Describing the removal of all traces of something. - Talking about the eradication of a pest or invasive species.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe the elimination of something.
- 2Both words imply a significant impact or reduction.
- 3Both words can be used in a variety of contexts.
What is the difference?
- 1Extent: Decimate implies a significant reduction, while eradicate suggests complete elimination.
- 2Scope: Decimate can refer to a specific portion of something, while eradicate implies the removal of all instances of something.
- 3Impact: Decimate suggests a severe impact on a group or organization, while eradicate implies a positive outcome or solution.
- 4Usage: Decimate is more commonly used in the context of warfare or natural disasters, while eradicate is more commonly used in the context of diseases or problems.
- 5Connotation: Decimate has a negative connotation, while eradicate has a more positive connotation.
Remember this!
Decimate and eradicate both describe the elimination of something, but they differ in their extent, scope, impact, usage, and connotation. Decimate implies a significant reduction or destruction of a portion of something, while eradicate suggests the complete removal of all instances of something. Decimate is often used in the context of warfare or natural disasters, while eradicate is more commonly used in the context of diseases or problems. Additionally, decimate has a negative connotation, while eradicate has a more positive connotation.
