undermining
word · lemma: undermine
Definition
Gradually making someone or something weaker or less effective, often in a secret or indirect way.
Usage & Nuances
Usually negative, formal to semi-formal. Common collocations: 'undermining authority', 'undermining confidence', 'undermining efforts'. Implies a harmful effect that is often subtle or hidden.
Spanish: socavar - minar (sentido figurado)Portuguese (BR): minar - enfraquecer (sentido figurado)Portuguese (PT): minar - enfraquecer (sentido figurado)Chinese (Simplified): 削弱 - 破坏 (比喻)Chinese (Traditional): 削弱 - 破壞 (比喻)Hindi: कमज़ोर करना - नींव खोदना (आलोचनात्मक)Arabic: تقويض - إضعاف
Example Sentences
Constant criticism was undermining her confidence.
basic
The leaks were undermining the company’s reputation.
basic
Rumors can be undermining to teamwork.
basic
He kept undermining my suggestions during the meeting.
natural
They accused the opposition of undermining national unity.
natural
If you keep undermining me in front of the kids, it makes parenting a lot harder.
natural