decimate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
decimate Word Meanings
- to destroy a large part of something
- to kill or remove a significant portion
- to cause great harm to
decimate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
decimate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdɛsɪmeɪt/
US
/ˈdɛsɪmeɪt/
decimate Word Etymology
From Latin 'decimare' (to take a tenth), with 'decimus' (tenth). The term originally referred to a Roman military practice of killing every tenth soldier as punishment. Visualize a row of soldiers, where every tenth is marked for removal, signifying loss and destruction in ranks.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Decimate is a strong verb meaning to destroy a large portion of something. Historically it referred to the Roman practice of killing one in every ten soldiers as punishment, a vivid image that still helps explain the original intensity. In modern use, it does not always mean killing one-tenth exactly; it often means to reduce something by a substantial amount, such as crops, wildlife, infrastructure, or a population, leaving a significant, sometimes crippling, impact. It can be used literally, as in a battlefield or disaster, or figuratively, to describe losses in business, resources, or morale. Because it is strong, use it when the scale of destruction is notable but not universal.
Usage Reminders
- Decimate means a very large reduction, not a precise tenth.
- Pair it with nouns like populations, crops, or infrastructure to show scale.
- Avoid using it for minor losses or everyday disappointments.
- It often carries a serious, dramatic tone—use it of notable damage.
- Can be used literally or metaphorically, but keep the context clear.
- If exact numbers are needed, use 'reduce' or 'decrease' instead.
Common Misconceptions
- It does not always mean exactly ten percent.
- It does not mean 'destroy completely' or 'eradicate'.
- It is not used for minor losses or everyday disappointments.
- The sense is more about scale and impact than precision.
- It is often abused in casual speech to exaggerate small changes.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: modern decimate emphasizes a dramatic, large-scale reduction, not a precise tenth; learners often misread it as a neutral, milder term or confuse it with eradicate.
Learning Tips
- Think of decimate as a very strong reduction, not a precise fraction.
- Pair with nouns like population, crops, or infrastructure to show scale.
- Reserve for real impact; avoid minor losses.
- Notice its tonal strength in formal writing vs. casual speech.
- Use with numbers when possible to emphasize magnitude.
- Practice with 3–5 context-rich sentences.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'decimate' mean?
A.To kill a large portion
B.To reduce drastically
C.To completely destroy
D.To encourage growth
Step 2: Usage
Select the correct usage of 'decimate'.
A.After the fire, the forest was decimated, leaving behind only ashes.
B.The storm was so severe that it could decimate our hopes for a vacation.
C.The team's excellent play helped to decimate their opponents' confidence.
D.Her endless complaints began to decimate her reputation in the office.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'decimate'?
A.Annihilate
B.Cherish
C.Inspire
D.Create
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'decimate'?
A.Construct
B.Ruin
C.Undermine
D.Attack
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the word 'decimate' would be suitable?
A.A disease outbreak can decimate local wildlife populations if not controlled.
B.The new policies were designed to help the community thrive and grow.
C.The garden flourished after the rain provided ample water and nutrients.
D.The company's profits soared after it implemented innovative strategies.
Related Listening
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