Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
His condemnation of the Nuremberg trials and opposition to military voting, in particular, may have torpedoed his chances for the Republican nomination in 1948.
From Salon ● Jan. 7, 2023
The rate hikes have torpedoed activity in the housing sector, and Wednesday's data from the National Association of Home Builders reinforced that.
From Reuters ● Oct. 18, 2022
Rising rates for home loans have torpedoed demand for refinances, while prospective buyers are increasingly being priced out.
From New York Times ● May 17, 2022
Kevin Spacey’s behaviour, and the unsettling, remorseless timbre of his apology, have torpedoed more than one project.
From The Guardian ● Nov. 27, 2017
"The Germans have torpedoed an English passenger ship, the Arabic; coming this way, too."
From One of Ours by Willa Sibert Cather
