What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
defaced
Example
The statue was defaced with graffiti overnight. [defaced: past participle]
Example
The building's facade was defaced with scratches and marks. [defaced: adjective]
ruined
Example
The storm ruined the crops in the field. [ruined: verb]
Example
The abandoned house was in a state of complete ruin. [ruin: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ruined is more commonly used than defaced in everyday language. Ruined covers a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe various types of damage, while defaced is more specific and often associated with intentional vandalism.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between defaced and ruined?
Both defaced and ruined are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
