What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
devastation
Example
The devastation caused by the hurricane was widespread and severe. [devastation: noun]
Example
The family was left in a state of devastation after the sudden loss of their loved one. [devastation: noun]
ruin
Example
The old castle was in ruins after years of neglect. [ruins: noun]
Example
The stock market crash led to the ruin of many investors. [ruin: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ruin is more commonly used than devastation in everyday language. Ruin is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while devastation is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between devastation and ruin?
Both devastation and ruin can be used in formal and informal contexts, but devastation may be more appropriate for situations that require a more emotional or dramatic tone, while ruin can be used in a more neutral or matter-of-fact way.
