destroy by fire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "destroy by fire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is being intentionally set on fire to eliminate it, such as in legal, military, or environmental discussions. Example: "The old documents were deemed sensitive and were ordered to be destroyed by fire to ensure confidentiality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was destroyed by fire in 1967.

The Guardian - Film

Most of the town was destroyed by fire in 1947.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 2010, it was all but destroyed by fire.

The Economist

(The house's shell was destroyed by fire last year).

The New York Times - Arts

In 1838 this building was destroyed by fire.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1887 it was almost entirely destroyed by fire.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most of his manuscripts were destroyed by fire.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Museum & that was destroyed by fire 3 years later.

The New Yorker

The town itself is mostly destroyed by fire.

Independent

The town was almost completely destroyed by fire in 1796.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1623 his personal library was destroyed by fire.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger verbs when possible. Instead of "was destroyed by fire", try "incinerated", "razed", or "obliterated" to add more impact.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive voice constructions such as "was destroyed by fire". Instead, opt for active voice: "The fire destroyed the building".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "destroy by fire" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a passive construction. It describes the action of something being eliminated or ruined through the use of flames. As Ludwig AI notes, it is a standard and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

6%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "destroy by fire" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe the act of eliminating something through flames. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable phrase. Primarily found in news, encyclopedias, and academic contexts, it conveys a sense of thorough and often intentional destruction. While generally neutral in tone, consider synonyms like "incinerate" for more formal settings or "burn down" for informal narratives. When writing, prioritize active voice and stronger verbs to make the description more impactful. It's a common phrase and therefore well understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Burn down

Focuses on the act of burning resulting in destruction.

Razed by fire

Implies complete demolition by fire.

Consumed by flames

Emphasizes the engulfing nature of fire.

Engulfed in flames

Similar to consumed by flames, but may suggest suddenness.

Reduced to ashes

Highlights the end result of burning.

Incinerated

A more formal term for burning completely.

Obliterated by fire

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the destruction.

Charred beyond recognition

Focuses on the visual state after burning.

Set ablaze and demolished

Combines the act of igniting and destroying.

Wiped out by fire

Implies complete removal from existence due to fire.

FAQs

What does "destroy by fire" mean?

The phrase "destroy by fire" means to completely ruin or eliminate something through the use of flames, often intentionally.

How can I use "destroy by fire" in a sentence?

You can use "destroy by fire" to describe the elimination of an object or place by setting it on fire. For example: "The evidence was ordered to be destroyed by fire to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands."

What can I say instead of "destroy by fire"?

You can use alternatives like "burn down", "raze by fire", or "incinerate" depending on the context.

Is "destroy by fire" formal or informal?

The phrase "destroy by fire" is fairly neutral but leaning toward the formal side. For a more informal expression, you might use "burn down". For a more formal tone, consider "incinerate".