What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
destructive
Example
The hurricane was incredibly destructive, causing widespread damage and destruction. [destructive: adjective]
Example
The child's destructive behavior towards the toys resulted in them being broken beyond repair. [destructive: adjective]
harmful
Example
Smoking is harmful to your health and can lead to serious illnesses. [harmful: adjective]
Example
The chemicals in the cleaning product are harmful to the environment and should be disposed of properly. [harmful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Harmful is more commonly used in everyday language than destructive.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between destructive and harmful?
Both destructive and harmful can be used in formal or informal contexts, but destructive may be perceived as more formal due to its less frequent usage in everyday language.
