obliterate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obliterate Word Meanings
- to completely destroy something
- to erase or remove all traces of something
- to make insignificant or no longer visible
obliterate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obliterate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈblɪt.ə.reɪt/
US
/əˈblɪt.ə.reɪt/
obliterate Word Etymology
Root decomposition: ob- = against + literare = to write. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a writer trying to write a letter but a giant eraser comes and wipes it all away, making it completely unreadable.
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
Obliterate means to destroy completely, erase all traces, or wipe out to the point that something is unreadable or unrecognizable. It carries a strong sense of total removal, often implying deliberate action rather than accidental damage. You can say a flood obliterated the trail, a hacker obliterated records, or a scandal obliterated someone’s career. In writing or memory, to obliterate is to wipe out what was there so no evidence remains. The etymology traces ob- against and literare to write, via Latin to Old French into English. A vivid memory: imagine a giant eraser sweeping across a page, leaving nothing readable behind.
Usage Reminders
- - Use for complete destruction or erasure; it implies total removal.
- - Common with traces, records, memory, or evidence.
- - Can be literal (physical destruction) or figurative (history erased).
- - Usually pairs with all traces of + object.
- - Past tense: obliterated; tone is formal/strong.
- - Avoid for everyday, light editing.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing obliterate with erase or destroy, which can be less absolute.
- Thinking it only refers to physical destruction, not data or memories.
- Assuming it’s common in casual speech; it’s more formal and dramatic.
- Using it for minor edits or corrections is incorrect.
- Believing it always removes people or identities; figurative use varies by context.
Thinking Differences
Obliterate in English emphasizes total, dramatic erasure; learners often overextend it to minor edits or use it in casual speech, which sounds odd.
Learning Tips
- - Distinguish obliterate from erase and destroy; intensity matters.
- - Pair with all traces of + object to express total removal.
- - Use in literal contexts (data, signs, records) or figurative ones (history, memory).
- - Remember past tense: obliterated; keep the tone formal for deliberate actions.
- - Practice with disasters, data, and memory to see tonal differences.
- - Watch for collocations (obliterate all traces, obliterate evidence).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'obliterate'?
A.Completely destroy
B.Partially damage
C.Repair fully
D.Enhance
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'obliterate' used correctly?
A.She gently repaired the broken vase.
B.The chef improved the recipe.
C.They partially fixed the leaky faucet.
D.He completely obliterated the old documents.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'obliterate'?
A.Erase
B.Preserve
C.Renovate
D.Upgrade
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'obliterate'?
A.Repair
B.Destroy
C.Enhance
D.Revamp
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would you use the word 'obliterate'?
A.When referring to wiping out all evidence of something
B.When talking about someone fixing a broken window
C.When describing a minor scratch on a car
D.When discussing an improvement in a painting
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