What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
invasive
Example
The invasive species of fish is causing damage to the local ecosystem. [invasive: adjective]
Example
The doctor performed an invasive surgery to remove the tumor. [invasive: adjective]
Example
I don't appreciate your invasive questions about my personal life. [invasive: adjective]
destructive
Example
The hurricane was so destructive that it destroyed entire neighborhoods. [destructive: adjective]
Example
His destructive behavior towards his coworkers led to his termination. [destructive: adjective]
Example
The construction of the new building will be destructive to the natural habitat of the local wildlife. [destructive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Destructive is more commonly used than invasive in everyday language. Destructive is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while invasive is less common and is typically used in specific contexts such as ecology or medicine.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between invasive and destructive?
Both invasive and destructive can be used in formal and informal contexts, but invasive may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing due to its specific ecological or medical connotations.
