Top 78 Slang For Devastating – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing the most gut-wrenching emotions, having the right words can make all the difference. In this article, we’ve rounded up the most cutting-edge and impactful slang for devastating situations. Whether you’re navigating heartbreak or facing a tough challenge, our list is sure to provide you with the perfect words to convey your feelings. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the depths of devastating slang like never before.

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1. Wrecked

This term is often used to describe a situation or person that has experienced extreme devastation or defeat.

For example, “After the car accident, my car was completely wrecked.”
In a video game, a player might say, “I got wrecked by the boss in the final level.”
A person might exclaim, “I was so wrecked after staying up all night studying for the exam.”

2. Crushed

This slang term is used to describe a feeling of extreme disappointment or defeat.

For instance, “I was crushed when I didn’t get the job I interviewed for.”
In sports, a team might say, “We were crushed by our opponents in the championship game.”
A person might express, “I felt crushed when my best friend betrayed my trust.”

3. Shattered

This word is often used to describe something that has been completely shattered or broken into pieces.

For example, “The vase fell off the shelf and shattered into a thousand pieces.”
In a metaphorical sense, a person might say, “My dreams were shattered when I didn’t get into my dream college.”
A person might exclaim, “I was so shattered when I found out my partner was cheating on me.”

4. Gutted

This slang term is used to describe a feeling of deep disappointment or devastation.

For instance, “I was gutted when my favorite team lost the championship.”
In a personal context, a person might say, “I felt gutted when I didn’t get the promotion I was hoping for.”
A person might express, “I was so gutted when I found out my pet had passed away.”

5. Ruined

This term is often used to describe something that has been completely ruined or rendered useless.

For example, “The rain ruined our picnic plans.”
In a financial sense, a person might say, “The stock market crash ruined my investments.”
A person might exclaim, “My favorite shirt got ruined in the washing machine.”

6. Devastated

This word is used to describe a feeling of extreme sadness or shock after experiencing something very upsetting or destructive. It can also refer to the state of being completely overwhelmed or destroyed.

For example, “I was devastated when I found out my pet had passed away.”
A person might say, “I felt devastated when I didn’t get the job I wanted.”
Another might express, “The news of the natural disaster left the entire community devastated.”

7. Heartbroken

This term is used to describe a deep and intense sadness or grief caused by a loss or betrayal, particularly in matters of love and relationships. It signifies a feeling of emotional devastation and anguish.

For instance, “She was heartbroken when her long-term relationship ended.”
A person might say, “I felt completely heartbroken when my best friend betrayed me.”
Another might express, “The death of a loved one can leave you feeling utterly heartbroken.”

8. Demolished

This word is used to describe a state of complete destruction or devastation. It can also refer to a feeling of being completely defeated or overwhelmed by a situation.

For example, “The tornado demolished the entire town.”
A person might say, “After failing the exam, I felt completely demolished.”
Another might express, “The team was completely demolished by their opponents in the championship game.”

9. Annihilated

This term is used to describe a state of complete destruction or obliteration. It signifies a complete and utter defeat or devastation.

For instance, “The army annihilated the enemy forces in a single attack.”
A person might say, “My car was annihilated in the accident.”
Another might express, “The virus annihilated the entire population of the village.”

10. Obliterated

This word is used to describe a state of complete and utter destruction or annihilation. It signifies a complete wiping out or eradication of something.

For example, “The building was obliterated by the explosion.”
A person might say, “The hurricane obliterated the coastal town.”
Another might express, “The evidence was obliterated, leaving no trace of the crime.”

11. Desolated

To be desolated means to be left in a state of complete devastation or ruin. It describes a situation or place that has been completely destroyed or left in a state of despair.

For example, “After the hurricane, the town was desolated, with buildings reduced to rubble.”
In a post-apocalyptic novel, the author might describe a desolated landscape, “The desolated city lay in ruins, a haunting reminder of what once was.”
A person might say, “I felt desolated after the loss of a loved one, like my world had crumbled around me.”

12. Ravaged

To be ravaged means to be severely damaged or destroyed. It implies a state of devastation and destruction that has left something in ruins.

For instance, “The war ravaged the country, leaving behind a trail of destruction.”
In a discussion about natural disasters, one might talk about a ravaged landscape, “The tornado ravaged the small town, tearing apart homes and businesses.”
A person might say, “The disease ravaged his body, leaving him weak and frail.”

13. Decimated

To decimate means to destroy a large portion or majority of something. It implies a devastating impact that significantly reduces or weakens the subject.

For example, “The plague decimated the population, wiping out nearly 90% of the people.”
In a sports context, one might say, “The opposing team decimated our defense, scoring goal after goal.”
A person might say, “The company’s layoffs decimated the workforce, leaving only a fraction of the employees.”

14. Despairing

Despairing refers to a state of extreme sadness or hopelessness. It describes a person who feels overwhelmed by negative emotions and lacks hope for the future.

For instance, “After the loss of her job, she became despairing, unsure of how she would support herself.”
In a novel, a character might be described as despairing, “His despairing eyes revealed the pain he carried in his heart.”
A person might say, “I felt despairing after the breakup, like my world had fallen apart.”

15. Despondent

To be despondent means to feel or show profound discouragement, dejection, or depression. It describes a state of extreme sadness and hopelessness, often accompanied by a lack of motivation or enthusiasm.

For example, “After failing the exam, she became despondent, questioning her abilities.”
In a discussion about mental health, one might talk about a despondent state, “People with depression often experience prolonged periods of despondency.”
A person might say, “I felt despondent after the loss of a loved one, like a heavy weight was pressing down on me.”

16. Dismayed

This term refers to feeling overwhelmed or shocked by a negative event or outcome. It implies a sense of disappointment or discouragement.

For example, “I was dismayed to find out that I didn’t get the job.”
In a sports context, a fan might say, “I was absolutely dismayed when our team lost in the final seconds.”
Someone might express their dismay by saying, “I can’t believe how poorly that presentation went.”

17. Overwhelmed

This slang term describes a feeling of being extremely burdened or inundated with tasks or responsibilities. It conveys a sense of being unable to cope or manage everything.

For instance, “I’m so overwhelmed with work right now.”
A student might say, “I feel overwhelmed by all the assignments and exams.”
A parent might express their overwhelm by saying, “I’m completely overwhelmed with taking care of the kids and running the household.”

18. Vanquished

This word signifies a complete and utter defeat or overpowering of someone or something. It suggests a sense of being overcome or conquered.

For example, “Our team was vanquished by the opposing side.”
In a battle scenario, one might say, “The enemy forces were vanquished by the superior firepower.”
A person might use this term metaphorically and say, “I feel vanquished by the challenges life has thrown at me.”

19. Slaughtered

This slang term describes a situation where someone or something is completely destroyed or defeated, often in a brutal or merciless manner. It implies a sense of overwhelming force or power.

For instance, “The opposing team was slaughtered in the championship game.”
In a video game context, a player might say, “I got slaughtered by that boss.”
A person might use this term metaphorically and say, “I feel like my self-esteem has been slaughtered by that criticism.”

20. Trashed

This slang term refers to something being severely damaged, ruined, or demolished. It implies a sense of complete devastation or destruction.

For example, “The house was trashed after the wild party.”
In a car accident scenario, one might say, “The car was completely trashed.”
A person might use this term metaphorically and say, “My reputation was trashed by those false rumors.”

21. Smashed

This slang term is often used to describe a situation where someone or something is overwhelmingly defeated or destroyed.

For example, “The team was completely smashed in the championship game.”
A person might say, “I got smashed in the video game tournament.”
Another might exclaim, “My car got smashed in the accident!”

22. Clobbered

When someone or something is clobbered, it means they were soundly beaten or defeated in a competition or conflict.

For instance, “The underdog team clobbered the reigning champions.”
A person might say, “I got clobbered in the boxing match.”
Another might comment, “Our business got clobbered by the recession.”

23. Dashed

When something is dashed, it means that hopes, dreams, or plans have been ruined or destroyed.

For example, “Her hopes of winning the competition were dashed when she fell during her performance.”
A person might say, “My plans for the weekend were dashed when it started raining.”
Another might lament, “His dreams of becoming a professional athlete were dashed when he suffered a career-ending injury.”

24. Blown away

When someone is blown away, it means they are extremely impressed or amazed by something.

For instance, “I was blown away by the incredible performance of the singer.”
A person might say, “The special effects in the movie blew me away.”
Another might exclaim, “The beauty of the sunset blew me away!”

25. Wiped out

When someone is wiped out, it means they are completely exhausted or destroyed.

For example, “After the long hike, I was completely wiped out.”
A person might say, “The flu wiped me out for a week.”
Another might comment, “The hurricane wiped out the entire town.”

26. Knocked out

This phrase is often used to describe someone who has been physically or emotionally defeated.

For example, “He was knocked out by his opponent in the boxing match.”
In a figurative sense, someone might say, “That news really knocked me out.”
A person describing a party might say, “The food and drinks knocked everyone out.”

27. Laid low

This phrase is used to describe someone who has been brought down or overwhelmed by a situation or event.

For instance, “The team was laid low by a series of injuries.”
In a personal context, someone might say, “I was laid low by the sudden loss of a loved one.”
A person describing a challenging task might say, “The workload laid me low.”

28. Brought to knees

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that has been completely overwhelmed or defeated.

For example, “The army was brought to its knees by the enemy’s superior forces.”
In a personal context, someone might say, “The loss of his job brought him to his knees.”
A person describing a financial crisis might say, “The recession brought many businesses to their knees.”

29. Taken out

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that has been eliminated or defeated.

For instance, “The sniper took out the enemy soldier with a single shot.”
In a figurative sense, someone might say, “That criticism really took me out.”
A person describing a sports game might say, “The opposing team took us out in the final minutes.”

30. Knocked for six

This phrase is used to describe someone who has been completely stunned or devastated by a situation or event.

For example, “The sudden death of his friend knocked him for six.”
In a personal context, someone might say, “The breakup knocked her for six.”
A person describing a shocking revelation might say, “The news of the scandal really knocked everyone for six.”

31. Hit rock bottom

This phrase is used to describe a situation or a person who has reached the lowest possible point, often emotionally or financially. It implies a state of complete devastation or despair.

For example, “After losing his job and getting a divorce, he hit rock bottom.”
A person might say, “I thought things couldn’t get any worse, but then I hit rock bottom.”
Another might describe a difficult period in their life by saying, “I went through a period where I hit rock bottom and had to rebuild my life from scratch.”

32. Sent reeling

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is completely overwhelmed or shocked by a devastating event or news. It implies a feeling of being knocked off balance or thrown into a state of confusion.

For instance, “The sudden loss of her loved one sent her reeling.”
A person might say, “I was sent reeling when I found out I didn’t get the job.”
Another might describe the aftermath of a natural disaster by saying, “The community was sent reeling by the devastation caused by the hurricane.”

33. Floored

This term is used to describe a situation where someone is completely surprised or shocked by something devastating or unexpected. It implies a feeling of being knocked down or unable to respond.

For example, “When she heard the news, she was floored.”
A person might say, “I was floored when I found out I won the lottery.”
Another might describe a shocking revelation by saying, “The evidence presented in court floored the jury.”

34. Taken aback

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is surprised or shocked by something unexpected or devastating. It implies a feeling of being momentarily unable to react or respond.

For instance, “She was taken aback by his sudden outburst.”
A person might say, “I was taken aback when I saw the damage caused by the storm.”
Another might describe a shocking comment by saying, “His insensitive remark took me aback.”

35. Stunned

This term is used to describe a situation where someone is in a state of shock or disbelief due to something devastating or unexpected. It implies a temporary loss of the ability to think or react.

For example, “She was stunned by the news of her friend’s passing.”
A person might say, “I was stunned when I found out I was chosen for the scholarship.”
Another might describe a surprising turn of events by saying, “The sudden twist in the plot left the audience stunned.”

36. Astounded

This word is used to describe a feeling of extreme surprise or disbelief. It denotes being completely taken aback or amazed by something.

For example, “I was astounded by the incredible talent displayed in the performance.”
A person might say, “I was astounded when I found out I had won the lottery.”
Another might exclaim, “I was astounded by the breathtaking beauty of the sunset.”

37. Jolted

When something jolts you, it means it gives you a sudden shock or surprise, causing you to be momentarily shaken or disturbed.

For instance, “I was jolted awake by the loud thunder.”
A person might say, “The unexpected news jolted me out of my complacency.”
Another might share, “The sudden jolt of the car accident left me disoriented and shaken.”

38. Overpowered

When you feel overpowered, it means you are overcome or overwhelmed by a force or situation that is stronger or greater than you.

For example, “I was overpowered by the emotions that flooded through me.”
A person might say, “The sheer number of tasks overwhelmed and overpowered me.”
Another might admit, “The opponent’s strength overpowered me in the wrestling match.”

39. Overthrown

To be overthrown means to be forcefully removed or replaced from a position of power or authority. It implies being dethroned or brought down from a position of control.

For instance, “The dictator was overthrown by a popular uprising.”
A person might say, “The king was overthrown and the monarchy was abolished.”
Another might discuss, “The corrupt government was overthrown, paving the way for a new era of democracy.”

40. Overrun

When an area or place is overrun, it means it has been invaded or taken over by a large number of people, animals, or things. It suggests being overwhelmed or swarmed.

For example, “The city was overrun by tourists during the peak season.”
A person might say, “The garden was overrun with weeds, making it difficult to maintain.”
Another might describe, “The battlefield was overrun by enemy forces, leading to chaos and confusion.”

41. Overturned

This term refers to something that has been completely turned over or flipped upside down. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation that has drastically changed or been disrupted.

For example, “The car was overturned in the accident.”
In a political context, one might say, “The election results overturned the previous administration’s policies.”
A person discussing a sudden change in their life might say, “My plans were completely overturned when I lost my job.”

42. Overcome

To overcome means to successfully deal with or overcome a difficult situation or challenge. It can also refer to surpassing or exceeding expectations.

For instance, “She overcame her fear of public speaking and delivered a powerful presentation.”
In a sports context, one might say, “The underdog team overcame a 20-point deficit and won the game.”
A person discussing personal growth might say, “I’ve overcome many obstacles in my life and become a stronger person.”

43. Crushing

When something is described as crushing, it means it is extremely overwhelming, devastating, or emotionally impactful. It can be used to describe both physical and emotional situations.

For example, “The news of her mother’s death was crushing.”
In a sports context, one might say, “The team suffered a crushing defeat in the championship game.”
A person describing a difficult breakup might say, “The breakup was absolutely crushing and took a long time to recover from.”

44. Gut-wrenching

Something that is gut-wrenching is emotionally distressing or painful. It often refers to situations that evoke intense feelings of sadness, sorrow, or empathy.

For instance, “The documentary about child poverty was gut-wrenching to watch.”
In a movie review, one might say, “The film’s ending was incredibly gut-wrenching and left the audience in tears.”
A person discussing a personal tragedy might say, “The loss of my loved one was absolutely gut-wrenching and took a long time to heal from.”

45. Heartbreaking

Heartbreaking describes something that is extremely sad or emotionally devastating. It often evokes strong feelings of sympathy, empathy, or sorrow.

For example, “The sight of the abandoned puppy was heartbreaking.”
In a news article, one might say, “The story of the earthquake’s impact on the community was truly heartbreaking.”
A person discussing a personal loss might say, “The death of my pet was absolutely heartbreaking and took a long time to recover from.”

46. Shattering

When something is described as shattering, it means that it is extremely devastating or emotionally overwhelming.

For example, “The news of his sudden death was absolutely shattering.”
A person might say, “Her betrayal was shattering to his trust.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The team’s loss was shattering to their championship hopes.”

47. Soul-crushing

When something is described as soul-crushing, it means that it is deeply devastating or emotionally draining.

For instance, “The constant rejection in his job search was soul-crushing.”
A person might say, “The end of their relationship was a soul-crushing experience.”
In a competitive setting, someone might describe a defeat as soul-crushing.

48. Devastation

Devastation refers to the state of complete destruction or ruin, often caused by a catastrophic event.

For example, “The earthquake caused widespread devastation in the city.”
A person might say, “The loss of their home was a scene of devastation.”
In a war context, a journalist might report on the devastation caused by bombings.

49. Demolishing

When something is described as demolishing, it means that it is completely destroying or obliterating something.

For instance, “The hurricane’s strong winds demolished entire neighborhoods.”
A person might say, “Her argument was so strong that it demolished his opposing viewpoint.”
In a sports context, a team might demolish their opponent with a landslide victory.

50. Annihilating

Annihilating refers to the complete eradication or obliterating of something, leaving nothing behind.

For example, “The bomb annihilated the entire building.”
A person might say, “The virus has the potential to annihilate the population.”
In a competition, a team might aim to annihilate their opponents with a dominant performance.

51. Ruinous

This term refers to something that causes severe damage or destruction. It can also describe a situation that leads to ruin or downfall.

For example, “The hurricane left a path of ruinous destruction in its wake.”
A person discussing the impact of a financial crisis might say, “The economic downturn had a ruinous effect on businesses.”
In a conversation about a failed project, someone might comment, “The mistakes made during the planning stage were ruinous to the outcome.”

52. Catastrophic

This word describes an event or situation that results in great damage, destruction, or loss. It implies a major disaster or catastrophe.

For instance, “The earthquake had a catastrophic impact on the city.”
A person discussing a failed business venture might say, “The decision to expand without proper research proved to be catastrophic.”
In a conversation about a car accident, someone might comment, “The collision had catastrophic consequences for all involved.”

53. Traumatic

This term describes an experience or event that causes severe emotional or psychological distress. It implies a lasting impact on one’s mental well-being.

For example, “The accident was a traumatic experience that left him with lasting anxiety.”
A person discussing a difficult breakup might say, “Going through a breakup can be a traumatic experience.”
In a conversation about a natural disaster, someone might comment, “The survivors of the hurricane faced traumatic memories and ongoing challenges.”

54. Overwhelming

This word describes something that is so intense or powerful that it is difficult to handle or resist. It implies a feeling of being completely overcome or overpowered.

For instance, “The amount of work on my plate is overwhelming.”
A person discussing a personal loss might say, “The grief was overwhelming and seemed to consume every aspect of my life.”
In a conversation about a challenging situation, someone might comment, “The demands of the job became overwhelming and led to burnout.”

55. Devastating blow

This phrase refers to a significant and severe setback or loss. It implies a powerful and devastating impact on a person or situation.

For example, “The team’s loss in the championship game was a devastating blow.”
A person discussing a failed business venture might say, “The economic recession dealt a devastating blow to our company.”
In a conversation about a personal tragedy, someone might comment, “Losing a loved one is a devastating blow that takes time to heal from.”

56. Ravaging

This term is used to describe something that causes severe damage or destruction. It implies a sense of intense devastation and ruin.

For example, “The hurricane ravaged the coastal town, leaving nothing but destruction in its wake.”
In a discussion about a war-torn country, one might say, “The ongoing conflict is ravaging the lives of innocent civilians.”
A person describing the aftermath of a natural disaster might say, “The earthquake ravaged the city, reducing it to rubble.”

57. Decimating

This term refers to the act of drastically reducing the number or strength of something. It implies a sense of devastation and significant loss.

For instance, “The disease decimated the population, leaving only a fraction of the original number.”
In a discussion about a sports team’s performance, one might say, “The opposing team decimated us, winning by a large margin.”
A person describing the effects of deforestation might say, “The logging industry is decimating the forests, causing irreparable damage to the ecosystem.”

58. Desolating

This term describes something that leaves a place or person feeling empty, bleak, or devoid of hope. It implies a sense of emotional devastation.

For example, “The loss of a loved one can be desolating, leaving a deep void in one’s heart.”
In a discussion about a post-apocalyptic movie, one might say, “The desolating landscape perfectly captured the sense of despair.”
A person describing the aftermath of a war might say, “The desolating effects of the conflict were visible in the abandoned streets and shattered buildings.”

59. Wrecking

This term refers to the act of causing significant destruction or damage to something. It implies a sense of chaos and devastation.

For instance, “The tornado was wrecking everything in its path, leaving a trail of destruction.”
In a discussion about a car accident, one might say, “The collision completely wrecked both vehicles.”
A person describing the aftermath of a fire might say, “The fire was so intense, it was wrecking everything in its reach.”

60. Obliterating

This term describes something that completely destroys or eliminates something else. It implies a sense of total annihilation.

For example, “The bomb obliterated the entire building, leaving nothing but rubble.”
In a discussion about a sports match, one might say, “Our team was obliterated by the opposing team, losing by a huge margin.”
A person describing the effects of a natural disaster might say, “The hurricane obliterated the coastal town, wiping out homes and infrastructure.”

61. Crippling

This term is used to describe something that causes severe damage or harm, often to the point of rendering someone or something unable to function properly or effectively.

For example, “The hurricane left behind crippling damage to the entire town.”
In a discussion about the economy, someone might say, “The recession had a crippling effect on small businesses.”
A person might describe a sports injury as “crippling” if it significantly impairs their ability to play.

62. Disastrous

This term is used to describe something that is characterized by a complete failure or catastrophe, often resulting in a significant loss or negative outcome.

For instance, “The company’s decision to cut corners led to a disastrous product launch.”
In a conversation about a failed project, someone might say, “The team’s lack of communication resulted in a disastrous outcome.”
A person might describe a car accident as “disastrous” if it caused severe injuries or fatalities.

63. Harrowing

This term is used to describe something that is deeply unsettling, distressing, or emotionally painful.

For example, “The harrowing images from the war zone shook the world.”
In a discussion about a personal experience, someone might say, “Surviving a natural disaster was a harrowing ordeal.”
A person might describe a horror movie as “harrowing” if it left them feeling deeply disturbed or frightened.

64. Devastating loss

This term is used to describe a loss or tragedy that is extremely severe, causing deep emotional pain or significant damage.

For instance, “The team suffered a devastating loss in the championship game.”
In a conversation about personal struggles, someone might say, “Experiencing the death of a loved one is a devastating loss.”
A person might describe a natural disaster as a “devastating loss” if it resulted in the destruction of homes and loss of lives.

65. Demoralizing

This term is used to describe something that undermines or weakens someone’s morale, leading to a decrease in motivation, optimism, or self-esteem.

For example, “Receiving constant criticism can be demoralizing for employees.”
In a discussion about a disappointing outcome, someone might say, “Losing the game in the final seconds was demoralizing for the team.”
A person might describe a series of setbacks as “demoralizing” if it makes them feel discouraged or hopeless.

66. Ruining

This term refers to the act of completely destroying or causing significant damage to something or someone. It implies a sense of devastation or ruin.

For example, “The hurricane is ruining the coastal towns.”
In a discussion about a failed project, someone might say, “Poor planning is ruining our chances of success.”
A person might exclaim, “My ex is ruining my life!”

67. Devastating news

This phrase describes news or information that is extremely upsetting, distressing, or emotionally overwhelming. It suggests a deep impact on the person receiving the news.

For instance, “She received devastating news about her family member’s illness.”
In a conversation about a tragic event, someone might say, “The news of the accident was devastating.”
A person might express, “I just got some devastating news about my job.”

68. Devastating defeat

This term refers to a defeat or loss that is extremely severe or overwhelming. It implies a sense of complete and utter defeat, often with significant negative consequences.

For example, “The team suffered a devastating defeat in the championship game.”
In a discussion about a political election, someone might say, “The candidate experienced a devastating defeat in the polls.”
A sports commentator might describe a lopsided game as “a devastating defeat for the losing team.”

69. Devastating effect

This phrase describes the significant and harmful consequences or outcomes of a particular action, event, or situation. It suggests a profound and negative impact.

For instance, “The hurricane had a devastating effect on the coastal communities.”
In a conversation about a natural disaster, someone might say, “The earthquake had a devastating effect on the local economy.”
A person might discuss the devastating effects of climate change on the environment.

70. Devoured

This term describes the act of completely and enthusiastically experiencing or absorbing something. It suggests a strong desire or passion for the subject or activity.

For example, “She devoured the book in just one sitting.”
In a discussion about a new TV series, someone might say, “I devoured the entire season in one weekend.”
A person might exclaim, “I can’t get enough of this music, I’m devouring every album!”

71. Cursed

This term refers to something or someone being under a curse or experiencing a string of bad luck. It can also be used to describe a situation that is extremely unfortunate or unlucky.

For example, “He believes he is cursed because everything he touches turns to dust.”
In a discussion about a sports team’s losing streak, someone might say, “The team is cursed this season.”
A person describing a series of unfortunate events might say, “I feel like I’m living a cursed life.”

72. Laid to waste

This phrase is used to describe something that has been completely destroyed or ruined. It implies that there is nothing left or salvageable.

For instance, “The tornado laid the entire town to waste.”
In a conversation about a failed business, someone might say, “All their hard work was laid to waste.”
A person describing the aftermath of a natural disaster might say, “The hurricane left everything in its path laid to waste.”

73. Torn apart

This term is used to describe something that has been completely broken or destroyed. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation or relationship that has been severely damaged or ruined.

For example, “The explosion tore the building apart.”
In a discussion about a divorce, someone might say, “Their marriage was torn apart by infidelity.”
A person describing the aftermath of a war might say, “The country was torn apart by conflict.”

74. Demoralized

This term refers to a state of being disheartened, demotivated, or having lost confidence. It can be used to describe individuals, teams, or communities that have been emotionally and psychologically affected by a negative experience or series of events.

For instance, “The team was demoralized after losing the championship.”
In a conversation about a failed project, someone might say, “The constant setbacks demoralized the entire team.”
A person describing the impact of a natural disaster on a community might say, “The residents were demoralized by the destruction of their homes.”

75. Smote

This term is an archaic past tense form of “smite,” which means to strike with a heavy blow or to inflict a devastating defeat. It is often used in a poetic or dramatic context to describe a powerful and destructive force or action.

For example, “The lightning smote the tree, splitting it in half.”
In a discussion about a historical battle, someone might say, “The enemy was smote with a decisive blow.”
A person describing a tragic event might say, “The town was smote by a terrible disaster.”

76. Laid waste

This phrase means to completely ruin or destroy something. It is often used to describe a situation or place that has been devastated.

For example, “The hurricane laid waste to the entire coastal town.”
In a discussion about war, one might say, “The bombs laid waste to the city, leaving nothing but rubble.”
A person describing the aftermath of a natural disaster might say, “The earthquake laid waste to the surrounding landscape.”

77. Destroyed

This word is used to describe something that has been completely destroyed or ruined. It implies a significant level of devastation.

For instance, “The tornado destroyed the entire neighborhood.”
In a conversation about a car accident, one might say, “The collision destroyed both vehicles.”
A person describing a fire might say, “The flames destroyed everything in their path.”

78. Broken-hearted

This term is used to describe someone who is feeling intense sadness or devastation, typically as a result of a romantic breakup or loss.

For example, “After their breakup, she was left broken-hearted.”
In a discussion about a tragic love story, one might say, “The protagonist was left broken-hearted after the death of their partner.”
A person describing a personal loss might say, “I felt completely broken-hearted when my pet passed away.”