What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
destroyer
Example
The destroyer fired its torpedoes at the enemy fleet. [destroyer: noun]
Example
The hurricane was a destroyer of homes and businesses. [destroyer: noun]
ruiner
Example
The CEO was a ruiner of the company's reputation with his unethical practices. [ruiner: noun]
Example
The rain ruined our picnic plans. [ruined: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Destroyer is less common in everyday language than ruiner. Destroyer is more specific and often associated with military or natural disasters, while ruiner is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between destroyer and ruiner?
Both destroyer and ruiner are generally informal words, but destroyer may be more commonly used in technical or military contexts, which could make it sound more formal in certain situations.