Spanish word

destructivo

Pronunciation

IPA/destɾukˈtiβo/

Meaning

  • adjectivedestructive

Example

Ese comportamiento es destructivo para la relación.

That behavior is destructive to the relationship.

Illustration for destructivo (destructive)

More examples

El incendio tuvo un efecto destructivo sobre el edificio.

The fire had a destructive effect on the building.

Core concept

A collapsed building with broken beams and debris.

Common phrases

  • comportamiento destructivo

    destructive behavior

  • efecto destructivo

    destructive effect

  • acto destructivo

    destructive act

Similar words

perjudicial: Produces harm or problems that lead to negative outcomes or setbacks.
dañino: Harms objects, health, or relationships, causing tangible damage or injury.
nocivo: Harms health or living organisms, often through toxic or poisonous action.
devastador: Causes overwhelming, large-scale destruction that leaves severe, lasting damage.

Definition in Spanish

Que causa daño o destrucción a algo, aplicable a objetos, procesos o relaciones.

Word origin

It comes from Latin destructus, the past participle of destruere 'to tear down', with the adjectival suffix -ivus forming a sense of 'tending to destroy'.

Usage tips

  • When used about people or relationships, destructivo carries a strong negative judgment and is often paired with a brief description of the harmful behavior rather than used alone.

Opposites

  • constructivoconstructiveadjective
  • beneficiosobeneficialadjective

Related words

Word lists with this word