What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
devastated
Example
She was devastated when she heard the news of her father's death. [devastated: adjective]
Example
The hurricane devastated the coastal town, leaving behind a trail of destruction. [devastated: verb]
ruined
Example
The fire ruined the old building, leaving it in ruins. [ruined: verb]
Example
After losing his job, he felt like his life was ruined. [ruined: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Devastated is more commonly used than ruined in everyday language, especially when describing emotional states. Ruined is less common and tends to be used more in formal contexts or when describing physical states.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between devastated and ruined?
Ruined is generally considered more formal than devastated, and is often used in more serious or professional contexts, such as when discussing property damage or financial losses.
