destroy
verb (used with object)
to reduce (an object) to useless fragments, a useless form, or remains, as by rending, burning, or dissolving; injure beyond repair or renewal; demolish; ruin; annihilate.
has been destroying
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present perfect progressiveof destroy (3rd person singular).present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The U.S. has been destroying its remaining stockpiles at U.S.
From Reuters ● Jul. 7, 2023
The King County Sheriff’s office has been destroying forfeited guns, but the ordinance ensures that practice continues, Council Chair Joe McDermott said.
From Washington Times ● Nov. 6, 2018
Ethanol has been destroying lawn-mower engines for years.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 27, 2018
“The bacchanalia of textbooks until now has been destroying our youth,” said one of the lawmakers involved, Frants A. Klintsevich, according to a transcript of the hearing.
From New York Times ● Nov. 1, 2014
I knew it was only her being driven out to that miserable governess life that has been destroying her!’ and he quite glared upon poor innocent Honor as a murderess.
From Hopes and Fears or, scenes from the life of a spinster by Charlotte Mary Yonge
