can only destroy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can only destroy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something has the sole capability of causing destruction or harm, without any other possible outcomes. Example: "In the wrong hands, this technology can only destroy lives and communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

I can only destroy you.

The New Yorker

It can only destroy them.

The New Yorker

And it waits to be convinced that soccer and the law share the will to combat what can only destroy the essence of the sport.

The New York Times - Sports

The Selfish Giant has Ken Loach's Kes in its DNA; Chapman looks eerily like the young David Bradley in some scenes, and Sean Gilder is a grisly, ironic, unfunny reincarnation of Brian Glover's PE teacher: a father figure who can only destroy.

The Guardian - Film

They can only destroy".

Pastoralism: Research, Policy and Practice

As the old general knew well, trade builds bridges; wars can only destroy them.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Buying fake followers can not only destroy your brand it can put your entire company at risk.

Huffington Post

Business owners who do not form a succession plan create a time bomb that can not only destroy their companies but tear apart their families.

The New York Times

This will show the world that we can not only destroy a country in our fight against terrorism, but help rebuild it as well.

The New York Times

But this means that they also have an interest in keeping their money in the Bank of Cyprus: yanking out what they can would only destroy a bank they now own, further hurting their chances of getting their money back.

The New York Times

"It can only be destroyed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can only destroy" to emphasize the singular, negative outcome of a situation. For a stronger impact, follow it with specific details about what is being destroyed.

Common error

Avoid using "can only destroy" in situations where the outcome isn't definitively destructive. Overusing it weakens its impact and may come across as melodramatic. Instead, opt for more nuanced phrasing when the outcome is uncertain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can only destroy" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing a singular, inevitable negative outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable in English. The phrase indicates a lack of potential for any other result besides destruction.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can only destroy" is a powerful expression used to indicate the exclusive capacity for destruction, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its strength lies in conveying a singular, negative consequence, and it's grammatically sound for both formal and informal contexts. While frequently found in news and media, remember to consider the tone and avoid overuse in less critical situations. Related phrases such as "is only capable of destroying" or "is bound to ruin" can offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is only capable of destroying

Rephrases to focus on capability rather than inevitability.

can solely devastate

Highlights the exclusivity of the action (solely) and uses a more intense verb (devastate).

is bound to ruin

Emphasizes inevitability of ruin, using a different verb tense and structure.

will inevitably ruin

Similar to 'is bound to ruin', but replaces 'bound' with 'inevitably'.

will invariably demolish

Uses stronger verbs to highlight the certainty and force of the destruction.

is destined to destroy

Suggests a predetermined outcome of destruction.

is certain to eradicate

Focuses on complete removal or obliteration.

is guaranteed to wreck

Implies a high level of certainty in causing damage or destruction.

serves only to demolish

Highlights the purpose or function as solely destructive.

exclusively annihilates

Emphasizes annihilation as the only possible result.

FAQs

How can I use "can only destroy" in a sentence?

Use "can only destroy" to indicate that something has the sole potential to cause ruin, with no positive or constructive outcomes. For instance: "In the wrong hands, power "can only destroy" lives."

What are some alternatives to "can only destroy"?

Alternatives include "is bound to ruin", "will inevitably demolish", or "is only capable of destroying", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "can only destroy"?

Yes, "can only destroy" is grammatically correct. The modal verb 'can' is correctly followed by 'only' and the base form of the verb 'destroy'.

How formal is the phrase "can only destroy"?

"Can only destroy" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, its impact can be strong, so consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.