be wrecked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be wrecked" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being damaged, destroyed, or in a state of emotional distress. Example: "After the accident, the car was left to be wrecked beyond repair."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Disproportionate toughness will not prevent car wrecks, but lives and careers will be wrecked through criminalisation.

The Guardian - Opinion

So it could be wrecked properly.

The New York Times - Style

I wondered whether Isber's home would be wrecked.

The New York Times

Premierships can be wrecked by unexpected changes of cast.

The Economist

Careers can be wrecked by taking an unpopular stand.

The New York Times

National Winter Garden Burlesque will be wrecked by change.

The New Yorker

In the EU about 10 millions of used cars have to be wrecked per year.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

They fear that the investment bank's value might be wrecked by continued squabbling and uncertainty.

The Economist

If the conflict escalated into a nuclear exchange, modern civilization would be wrecked.

The New York Times

This friendship with the environmental lobby could be wrecked by its link with McDonald's.

The Guardian

He said he expected martial law to be imposed and the region's economy to be wrecked.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “be wrecked” to vividly describe the outcome of destructive forces, both physical and emotional, creating a stronger impact on the reader.

Common error

Avoid using “be wrecked” for minor damages; reserve it for situations involving significant destruction or ruin. The phrase carries a strong connotation of severity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of “be wrecked” is a passive construction indicating a state of being severely damaged or destroyed. Ludwig provides examples showing its usage in describing both physical objects and abstract concepts suffering significant harm.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

15%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase “be wrecked” is a grammatically correct and very common passive construction used to describe something that has suffered extensive damage or destruction. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase clearly and effectively conveys a state of ruin, whether physical or emotional. Predominantly found in contexts such as news reports and scientific articles, it is considered to have a neutral register, making it appropriate for diverse audiences. When using “be wrecked”, ensure that the damage is significant to justify the term's strong connotation. Alternatives such as "be destroyed" or "be ruined" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be destroyed

Focuses on the act of demolition or obliteration, often implying a more complete and irreversible end.

be ruined

Emphasizes the loss of value, quality, or intended purpose, suggesting damage that may or may not be irreparable.

be devastated

Implies a more comprehensive and often emotionally impactful level of destruction, affecting not just physical objects but also people or systems.

be shattered

Suggests a violent breaking apart or disintegration, often used in the context of hopes, dreams, or relationships.

be demolished

Indicates a systematic and intentional act of tearing down or dismantling a structure or system.

be obliterated

Conveys a sense of complete and utter annihilation, leaving no trace or remnant behind.

be dismantled

Focuses on taking something apart piece by piece, often implying a deliberate and controlled process.

be laid waste

Describes a scene of widespread destruction and desolation, often caused by war or natural disaster.

be totaled

Commonly used in reference to vehicles, meaning damaged beyond repair and considered a complete loss.

be left in ruins

Suggests the aftermath of destruction, with remnants and debris remaining as evidence of the damage.

FAQs

How can I use "be wrecked" in a sentence?

You can use "be wrecked" to describe something that has been severely damaged or destroyed, like "The car was so badly damaged it had to be wrecked."

What are some alternatives to saying "be wrecked"?

You can use alternatives like "be destroyed", "be ruined", or "be devastated" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "being wrecked"?

Yes, "being wrecked" is grammatically correct. For example, "The old building is in danger of being wrecked by the storm."

What is the difference between "be wrecked" and "be damaged"?

"Be wrecked" implies a more severe level of destruction than "be damaged". Something that is "damaged" can often be repaired, while something that "be wrecked" is usually beyond repair.