Verb Phrase
/make ˈhævək ʌv/
The phrase "make havoc of" means to cause a significant amount of chaos, destruction, or disorder. It implies that something has been severely disrupted or damaged. The phrase is less formal and often used when describing a situation where things have gone completely wrong or when someone has caused turmoil.
In terms of frequency, "make havoc of" is more commonly used in written contexts rather than in everyday oral speech. It is often found in literature, media, and formal discussions rather than casual conversation.
The storm made havoc of the small town, leaving destruction in its wake.
La tormenta hizo estragos en el pequeño pueblo, dejando destrucción a su paso.
His reckless driving made havoc of the family's peaceful life.
Su conducción imprudente arruinó la vida tranquila de la familia.
The political scandal made havoc of the candidate's reputation.
El escándalo político hizo estragos en la reputación del candidato.
While "make havoc of" itself is less prevalent in idiomatic expressions, it aligns with idioms that express confusion or disorder. Here are some idiomatic expressions related to the theme of destruction or disarray, often used in similar contexts:
Make a mountain out of a molehill
They tend to make a mountain out of a molehill when discussing minor issues.
Tienden a hacer una tormenta en un vaso de agua cuando hablan de problemas menores.
Run amok
After the power went out, the kids started to run amok in the house.
Después de que se fue la luz, los niños comenzaron a descontrolarse en la casa.
Throw a wrench in the works
The sudden illness threw a wrench in the works of our vacation plans.
La enfermedad repentina echó a perder nuestros planes de vacaciones.
Cause a stir
Her unexpected appearance at the party caused quite a stir among guests.
Su aparición inesperada en la fiesta causó un gran revuelo entre los invitados.
Break the mold
The new policies aim to break the mold of outdated management practices.
Las nuevas políticas buscan romper el molde de las prácticas de gestión obsoletas.
The word "havoc" originates from the Middle English word "havok," which derives from the Old French havoc, meaning "to pillage" or "to lay waste." It is often associated with warfare and the chaos that ensues. The verb "make" comes from the Old English macian, meaning "to form, build, or create."
Synonyms: - Wreak havoc - Create disorder - Cause chaos
Antonyms: - Restore order - Stabilize - Organize
In summary, "make havoc of" conveys a significant level of chaos and disorder. While less commonly used in everyday speech, it serves as a potent expression of disruption and is closely related to various idiomatic expressions concerning turmoil.