Verb
/destɾoˈθaɾ/ (in Spain) or /destroˈzaɾ/ (in Latin America)
In the Spanish language, "destrozar" means to severely damage or destroy something, often implying that it is rendered unusable or in ruins. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. The frequency of use is moderate, and it can be found in both oral and written language, often in news articles, literature, and everyday conversation when discussing destruction or significant damage to objects, ideas, or situations.
The earthquake destroyed many houses in the neighborhood.
No dejes que la crítica te destroce.
Don’t let the criticism destroy you.
La tormenta destrozó el viejo barco en el puerto.
"Destrozar" is often used in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish, emphasizing destruction in various contexts.
The news completely destroyed him.
Destrozar la moral de un equipo no es difícil con críticas constantes.
Destroying a team's morale isn't difficult with constant criticism.
Ese accidente destrozó nuestras vacaciones planeadas.
That accident wrecked our planned vacation.
La presión de la competencia puede destrozar el espíritu de un jugador.
The word "destrozar" comes from the Latin "destrocāre," which is formed by the prefix "de-" indicating removal or reversal, and "strocāre," which relates to breaking or smashing. The combination essentially conveys the act of breaking down or tearing apart.