sabotage

[ˈsæbətɑːʒ]

sabotage Definition

  • 1to deliberately destroy or damage something, especially for political or military advantage
  • 2to prevent the success of a plan or action

Using sabotage: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "sabotage" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The rebels sabotaged the railway line.

  • Example

    He was accused of trying to sabotage the peace talks.

  • Example

    She was suspected of sabotaging her colleague's work.

  • Example

    The company was accused of sabotaging its competitors.

sabotage Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for sabotage

Antonyms for sabotage

Idioms Using sabotage

  • to do something that prevents oneself from achieving success

    Example

    By not studying for the exam, he was sabotaging himself.

  • sabotage someone's efforts

    to intentionally disrupt or hinder someone's attempts to achieve something

    Example

    She felt that her boss was sabotaging her efforts to get a promotion.

  • to use underhanded tactics to harm or undermine one's competitors

    Example

    The company was accused of sabotaging the competition by spreading false rumors about their products.

Phrases with sabotage

  • to carry out an act of sabotage

    Example

    The group was planning to commit sabotage against the government.

  • the deliberate destruction or damage of industrial facilities or equipment

    Example

    The factory was shut down due to industrial sabotage.

  • a military operation aimed at destroying or damaging enemy targets

    Example

    The soldiers were sent on a sabotage mission behind enemy lines.

Origins of sabotage

from French 'saboter', meaning 'to clatter with sabots (wooden shoes)'

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Summary: sabotage in Brief

The verb 'sabotage' [ˈsæbətɑːʒ] means to deliberately destroy or damage something, often for political or military advantage, or to prevent the success of a plan or action. Examples include 'The rebels sabotaged the railway line.' and 'She was suspected of sabotaging her colleague's work.' The phrase 'commit sabotage' refers to carrying out an act of sabotage, while 'sabotage oneself' means to do something that prevents oneself from achieving success.

How do native speakers use this expression?