to demolish something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to demolish something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of tearing down or destroying a structure or object. Example: "The city decided to demolish the old building to make way for a new park."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"It would be painful to demolish something of that sort".

The New York Times

In just a few sentences, it seems to demolish something we would ordinarily take entirely for granted: our knowledge of the world around us.

The Guardian - Books

"Obviously it would be quite difficult to demolish something you are very proud of," he said.

BBC

That's clearly a concern of Cam Gordon, the one Minneapolis City Council member to vote against Peavey Plaza's demolition, based on his quote in the June 13 , 2012Architect's Newspaper: "I have seen many time where the city has been quick to demolish something and then later we wish we hadn't".

Huffington Post

"There's no other reason to pull a demolition permit except to demolish something". City staffers recommended that the Cultural Heritage Commission give the building a chance at being dubbed a monument, noting its sharp angles and sweeping curves, custom neon signage and terrazzo floor.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"We always seem to be demolishing something," said Scott Laurie, chief executive of Olson, which has about a dozen communities in the region under development.

Los Angeles Times

If stirring words aren't enough to get you through, try demolishing something.

Forbes

Next best is demolishing something that's old and rotten — the appeal of Representative Paul D. Ryan's radical rhetoric is no accident.

The New York Times

Despite the criticism, "Civic Virtue" remained in place, in part because politicians were leery of demolishing something on which $60,000 had been spent.

The New York Times

Demolishing something can do wonders for a bruised ego too.

Forbes

The problem wasn't how to demolish this van (throw something heavy on it) or destroy that helicopter (write a software program) or toss bodies through the air (cue the stunt men and more software).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to demolish something", consider the level of formality required by your audience. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes be replaced with simpler alternatives like "to tear down" for a more casual tone.

Common error

Avoid using "to demolish something" repeatedly in formal or academic writing. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms like "to dismantle", "to raze", or "to eliminate" to enhance clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to demolish something" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically serving as a verb complement or an object of a verb. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to demolish something" is a grammatically sound infinitive phrase that effectively conveys the act of completely destroying or dismantling an object or structure. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. While not overly common, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts. For alternative phrasings, consider options like "to tear something down" or "to destroy something", keeping in mind the nuances of each alternative. When crafting content, be mindful of overusing the phrase in formal contexts and consider synonyms for added clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to destroy something

A broad term for causing damage or ruin to something.

to tear something down

Focuses on the act of physically dismantling or destroying a structure.

to dismantle something

Implies a careful and methodical process of taking something apart.

to wreck something

Implies violent or forceful destruction.

to take something apart

A more general term for separating something into its component pieces, often implying destruction.

to bulldoze something

Specifically refers to using a bulldozer to demolish a structure.

to raze something to the ground

Emphasizes the complete destruction of a structure, leaving nothing behind.

to obliterate something

Implies a complete and utter destruction, often used figuratively.

to eradicate something

Focuses on completely eliminating something, often used for abstract concepts.

to eliminate something

A general term for removing something, without necessarily implying destruction.

FAQs

What does "to demolish something" mean?

The phrase "to demolish something" means to completely destroy or tear down a structure or object, often intentionally.

How can I use "to demolish something" in a sentence?

You can use "to demolish something" in a sentence to describe the act of destroying a building, an idea, or any tangible or intangible thing. For example: "The city decided "to demolish something" old to build something new."

What can I say instead of "to demolish something"?

You can use alternatives like "to tear down something", "to dismantle something", or "to destroy something" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "to demolish something" or "to destroy something"?

While both phrases are correct, "to demolish something" often implies a more thorough and intentional destruction, particularly of buildings or large structures. "To destroy something" is a broader term that can apply to a wider range of objects and situations.