widespread destruction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "widespread destruction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe extensive damage or devastation that affects a large area or many people. Example: "The hurricane caused widespread destruction across the coastal towns, leaving many families homeless."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He left behind widespread destruction.

The New Yorker

Satellite pictures suggest widespread destruction.

The Economist

Local officials fear widespread destruction.

The Guardian

Widespread destruction was reported on the island.

The Washington Post

If they don't cull, there will be widespread destruction".

Independent

Moreover, the widespread destruction of species and the unrelenting loss of habitat continue to accelerate.

Yale University

But these deliveries were tiny in the face of such widespread destruction.

The New York Times

PREMIER AMONG WOUNDED Crowd Trapped in Widespread Destruction Around Edifice -Martial Law Declared.

The New York Times

There was also widespread destruction in Rawalakot, Bagh and the numerous hill settlements throughout Pakistani Kashmir.

The Guardian

Scenes from the aftermath of the tornadoes that caused widespread destruction across the Midwest.

The New York Times

Waves that large could sweep over coastal areas, causing widespread destruction, Dr. French said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events like natural disasters or conflicts, use "widespread destruction" to accurately convey the scale and impact of the damage. Provide specific details to support the general statement.

Common error

Avoid using "widespread destruction" as a standalone phrase without providing context or specific examples of the damage caused. Strengthen your writing by including details such as types of buildings destroyed, number of people affected, or specific environmental impacts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "widespread destruction" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "widespread" modifies the noun "destruction". Ludwig AI confirms this usage, showcasing its deployment across various contexts to describe extensive damage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "widespread destruction" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that effectively conveys the extensive scope and impact of damage. As indicated by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to describe significant devastation across various contexts, primarily in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. When using the phrase, ensure to provide specific details to enhance the description and avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "extensive devastation" or "massive damage" can be used depending on the desired emphasis. Overall, "widespread destruction" remains a powerful and versatile phrase for describing large-scale damage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extensive devastation

Emphasizes the severe impact and ruin caused across a large area.

massive damage

Highlights the large scale and significant impact of the destruction.

large-scale devastation

Focuses on the breadth and scope of the ruin.

rampant ruination

Suggests uncontrolled and escalating destruction.

broad annihilation

Implies a complete or near-complete level of destruction across a wide area.

comprehensive demolition

Highlights the thorough and complete removal or destruction of structures.

wholesale ravaging

Emphasizes the indiscriminate and widespread nature of the destructive actions.

general desolation

Focuses on the resulting state of emptiness and ruin after the destruction.

pervasive impairment

Highlights the widespread and deeply affecting negative consequences.

sweeping decimation

Suggests a broad and impactful reduction or destruction of something.

FAQs

How can I use "widespread destruction" in a sentence?

You can use "widespread destruction" to describe the extent of damage caused by events like natural disasters, wars, or industrial accidents. For example: "The earthquake caused "widespread destruction" across the city."

What are some alternatives to "widespread destruction"?

Alternatives include "extensive devastation", "massive damage", or "large-scale devastation", depending on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

Is "widespread destruction" formal or informal?

"Widespread destruction" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in news reports, academic papers, and general conversation to describe significant damage.

What's the difference between "widespread destruction" and "localized damage"?

"Widespread destruction" implies that the damage affects a large area or many entities, while "localized damage" suggests that the damage is confined to a specific area or a small number of entities.