What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
undoing
Example
I'm afraid your mistake is your undoing. [undoing: noun]
Example
She tried to undo the knot, but it was too tight. [undo: verb]
ruin
Example
The old castle was in ruins after years of neglect. [ruins: noun]
Example
He ruined his reputation by making false accusations. [ruined: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ruin is more commonly used than undoing in everyday language. Ruin is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of situations, while undoing is more specific and less common.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between undoing and ruin?
Both undoing and ruin can be used in formal and informal contexts, but ruin is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
