it has devastated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it has devastated" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or event that has caused significant destruction or emotional pain. Example: "The recent hurricane has devastated the coastal communities, leaving many families homeless."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

While the austerity regime has allowed Greece to meet short-term obligations to its creditors, it has devastated the country's economy.

Huffington Post

Its most bloody outcome is seen in Syria but it has devastated Iraq and threatens Lebanon.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It has devastated the community.

The Guardian

But it has devastated all of us".

The Guardian

It has devastated my whole family".

The Guardian

But it has devastated Kosovo's already bad international image.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

For that, in the end, was what carried the team through in a semifinal series in which it had devastated Madrid, 4-1, just one week ago.

The New York Times - Sports

My grandmother would tell me how she had lost uncles and her grandma to the disease, how it had devastated our family.

The New York Times - Magazine

Dewey's collapse has devastated its employees.

The New York Times

Pollution has devastated the fishing industry.

The Economist

The fighting has devastated Sinjar.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it has devastated", ensure that the subject 'it' is clearly defined and that the context emphasizes the significant negative impact being described. Provide specific details to illustrate the extent of the devastation for greater impact.

Common error

Avoid using "it has devastated" for minor inconveniences or situations where the impact is not truly severe. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it has devastated" functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, typically acting as the main predicate. It asserts that a specific subject has caused widespread destruction or a significantly negative impact. This aligns with Ludwig's examples, which showcase the phrase's use in describing profound damage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it has devastated" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe situations causing significant destruction or negative impact. Ludwig AI confirms its wide applicability, particularly within news and media contexts. While versatile, it's essential to reserve "it has devastated" for scenarios where the impact is truly severe, avoiding overuse in minor situations. Related phrases like ""it has ruined"" or ""it has wrecked"" can offer nuanced alternatives, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it has ruined

This alternative emphasizes the destruction or spoilage caused, focusing on the negative outcome.

it has wrecked

This alternative suggests a more forceful and sudden destruction, often implying irreparable damage.

it has destroyed

This option highlights the complete demolition or eradication of something.

it has crippled

This version indicates a severe weakening or disabling effect, emphasizing long-term impairment.

it has ravaged

This implies widespread destruction and desolation, often associated with natural disasters or conflict.

it has undermined

This alternative points to a gradual weakening or erosion of something's foundation or strength.

it has decimated

Focuses on a severe reduction in number, often used in the context of populations or resources.

it has impaired

This phrase highlights a reduction in function or ability, suggesting damage but not necessarily total destruction.

it has shattered

Suggests a breaking into pieces, either literally or figuratively, implying a sudden and impactful destruction.

it has compromised

This alternative implies a weakening or vulnerability due to damage or exposure.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "it has devastated"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "it has ruined", "it has wrecked", or "it has destroyed".

How do I use "it has devastated" in a sentence?

Use "it has devastated" to describe something that has caused significant damage or destruction. For example, "The hurricane it has devastated the coastal region."

Is "it has devastated" too strong of a phrase for minor issues?

Yes, "it has devastated" implies a severe negative impact. For less serious situations, consider milder alternatives like "it has affected" or "it has impacted".

What's the difference between "it has devastated" and "it has damaged"?

"It has devastated" suggests widespread and severe destruction, while "it has damaged" implies a less extensive or serious level of harm.