ravages of war

USAGE SUMMARY

"ravages of war" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the destructive effects of a war, which usually include physical destruction, emotional turmoil, and economic hardship. For example: "The ravages of war took a heavy toll on the people of the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Despite the ravages of war, the health of the population had improved.

The New Yorker

The ravages of war had induced a newly solemn reassessment of the past.

The Guardian - Books

Emma Fowler is the embodiment of Terrell's education in the intricacies and ravages of war.

The New Yorker

He restored state infrastructures that had all but vanished amid the ravages of war.

The Guardian

J.S., whose expertise is in eating disorders, not the ravages of war, is there to help.

The New York Times - Magazine

Set on a drab, crude set, this is a small drama about a large subject: the ravages of war.

The New York Times

Fortunately, such attitudes began to fade with the fire and smoke left by the ravages of war.

Independent

Before Moses reached his 13th birthday, his peaceful world was suddenly disturbed by the ravages of war and persecution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Their rapport is touching, almost innocent – the sort of relationship born out of chance meetings amid the ravages of war.

The Guardian

Inside a cramped workshop here, a team of restorers are hurrying to repair the ravages of war.

The New York Times

Reagan was speaking to a people who knew well the ravages of war and the terrible price of appeasement.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ravages of war" to vividly describe the destructive impact of conflict on societies, economies, and individuals.

Common error

While both words relate to negative impacts, "ravages" implies a more widespread and devastating destruction than "damages". Use "ravages" to highlight the comprehensive and lasting consequences of war.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ravages of war" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the destructive and devastating effects caused by war. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ravages of war" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes the devastating effects of armed conflict. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively communicates the destruction and suffering caused by war, appearing frequently in news reports, encyclopedias, and academic texts. While synonyms like "effects of war" or "hardships of war" exist, "ravages of war" specifically emphasizes the comprehensive and destructive nature of conflict. Therefore, using this phrase appropriately can significantly enhance the impact of your writing when discussing the consequences of war.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

effects of war

Focuses more broadly on all consequences, both positive and negative, stemming from war.

hardships of war

Emphasizes the difficulties and suffering experienced during wartime.

damages of war

Highlights the physical and material destruction caused by war.

misfortunes of war

Emphasizes the unfortunate and adverse events that occur during wartime.

atrocities of war

Specifically refers to the cruel and brutal acts committed during warfare.

agonies of war

Focuses on the intense pain and suffering caused by war.

disasters of war

Highlights the catastrophic and devastating nature of war.

dangers of war

Points out the perilous and unsafe conditions created by war.

hazards of war

Highlights the risks and potential dangers associated with warfare.

evils of war

Emphasizes the immorality and wickedness associated with war.

FAQs

How can I use "ravages of war" in a sentence?

You can use "ravages of war" to describe the destructive effects of conflict, such as in the sentence, "The country struggled to rebuild after the "ravages of war" left its infrastructure in ruins."

What are some synonyms for "ravages of war"?

Similar phrases include "effects of war", "hardships of war", and "damages of war". These phrases convey different nuances of the destruction and suffering caused by conflict.

Is it appropriate to use "ravages of war" in formal writing?

Yes, "ravages of war" is appropriate for formal writing. It is frequently used in news reports, academic papers, and other professional contexts to describe the destructive impact of war.

What's the difference between "ravages of war" and "consequences of war"?

"Ravages of war" specifically emphasizes the destructive and devastating effects, while "consequences of war" is a broader term that can include both positive and negative outcomes. Therefore, "consequences of war" might be used to talk about economical or political shifts following a conflict, while "ravages of war" is used to describe cities destroyed or people killed.