sabotage - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sabotage Word Meanings
- the act of deliberately destroying or damaging something
- to deliberately hinder or obstruct
- to undermine someone's efforts or plans
sabotage Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sabotage Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsæbətɑːʒ/
US
/ˈsæbətɑːʒ/
sabotage Word Etymology
sabotage = sabot + -age; Originated from French, meaning 'to damage by workers', where 'sabot' refers to a wooden shoe used by workers to destroy machinery. Picture a worker throwing down his wooden shoe to break factory equipment in frustration.
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
Sabotage is a word with both noun and verb forms describing deliberate harm to hinder a goal. As a noun, it refers to the act of destroying or damaging something on purpose to obstruct a project, operation, or investigation. As a verb, to sabotage means to deliberately hinder or obstruct someone’s plans. The term is often used in business, politics, or warfare contexts, and can cover physical damage, tampering, or covert interference. It carries a strong negative connotation and implies intent, not a simple accident. Origin-wise, it comes from French sabotage, which in turn is linked to workers throwing sabots, wooden shoes, into machinery to disrupt work.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Sabotage implies intent to harm or obstruct. 2) Use as noun or verb with clear sense of purpose. 3) Distinguish from vandalism and from mere delays. 4) Common collocations: sabotage a plan, sabotage production, sabotage an investigation. 5) In formal writing, specify the type of sabotage and who is targeting what.
Common Misconceptions
- Sabotage only means physically destroying equipment
- It is the same as a simple failure or accident
- Sabotage and vandalism are interchangeable
- Sabotage is only relevant in war or politics
- You can sabotage indirectly without intent
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, sabotage often marks an overt intentional act against plans or property, with clear boundaries between sabotage and ordinary mistakes. Learners tend to overgeneralize 'damage' to include minor delays or poor results, or confuse sabotage with mere vandalism or incompetence; remember that sabotage implies deliberate, targeted interference.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: sabotage a plan, sabotage production, sabotage an investigation
- Distinguish sabotage from vandalism and from simple delays
- Note the noun vs verb usage: 'There was sabotage' vs 'They sabotaged the project'
- Practice in context: corporate, political, and cyber scenarios
- Watch for passive constructions: 'was sabotaged' vs 'sabotaged by…'
- Build short, clear sentences to avoid overuse of the term
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'sabotage' mean?
A.To cook
B.To fix
C.To intentionally damage or obstruct something
D.To clean
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'sabotage' correctly?
A.She sabotaged her own plans by working hard towards her goal.
B.He tried to sabotage the leak by fixing it quickly.
C.The teacher sabotaged the student's learning by providing extra help.
D.The company's success was sabotaged by teamwork.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'sabotage'?
A.Corrupt
B.Improvise
C.Create
D.Celebrate
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'sabotage'?
A.Uphold
B.Enhance
C.Strengthen
D.Sabotage
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving sabotage?
A.A scenario where someone helps improve a situation despite challenges.
B.A scenario where everyone works together to achieve a common goal.
C.A scenario where someone purposefully damages equipment to prevent a project from succeeding.
D.A scenario where a team competes in a friendly sports match.
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