raze - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
raze Word Meanings
- to completely destroy a building or structure
- to level something to the ground
- to erase or obliterate completely
raze Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
raze Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/reɪz/
US
/reɪz/
raze Word Etymology
raze = raze (from Latin 'radere' meaning to scrape) → Old French 'raser' meaning to shave → English 'raze'. Imagine a city being scraped clean, like removing a layer of paint to reveal a stark, bare surface.
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
Raze is a strong verb meaning to completely destroy a building or structure, often by tearing it down to the ground level. It conveys deliberate demolition rather than renovation, and it is frequently used in news reports about urban redevelopment, municipal planning, or wartime destruction. The term can be literal, as when inspectors push through piles of rubble, or metaphorical, as in a plan to raze old regulations to make way for new rules. Learners should note that raze is transitive and requires a direct object (a building or site), and it is not used for smaller-scale cleaning or repainting tasks.
Usage Reminders
- Raze is for complete destruction, not renovation. Use with a direct object. Often followed by to the ground. Distinguish from raise, which means to lift or increase. Common in formal reporting and planning discussions. Avoid raze in informal speech about cleaning or repainting.
Common Misconceptions
- Raze means to raise something up or build anew, not destroy
- Raze only applies to buildings, not landscapes or plans
- Raze can be used for minor cleanup or repainting
- Raze is informal; use demolish or destroy in formal contexts
- Raze is interchangeable with erase
Thinking Differences
In English, raze emphasizes total demolition. Learners often overextend it to minor demolitions or confuse it with erase. Think in terms of buildings and sites, not people or ideas.
Learning Tips
- Remember raze is for total destruction of a structure
- Pair raze with to the ground to emphasize complete destruction
- Distinguish raze from raise and from erase
- Use formal contexts like news or planning documents
- Look for synonyms like demolish or flatten in different registers
- Practice with both concrete buildings and metaphorical uses
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'raze'?
A.Build
B.Repair
C.Expand
D.Destroy
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'raze' used correctly?
A.The old building was razed to make room for a new skyscraper.
B.She decided to raze a new house in the backyard.
C.He raze his savings to help his friend.
D.The garden was razed beautifully.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym of 'raze'?
A.Construct
B.Preserve
C.Renovate
D.Demolish
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'raze'?
A.Restore
B.Build
C.Revamp
D.Enhance
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you encounter the word 'raze'?
A.Cooking a new recipe
B.Gardening to plant new flowers
C.Construction site preparing for a new building
D.Learning a new language
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