Meaning and Usage
The verb "滅ぼす" (ほろぼす) means "to destroy," "to overthrow," or "to ruin." It is a strong, often formal or literary term used to describe complete destruction or annihilation, whether of countries, organizations, or abstract concepts like hopes or plans.
Common Contexts
You will often see "滅ぼす" in historical or dramatic contexts, such as wars, battles, or the downfall of powerful entities. It can also be used metaphorically to describe ruining something important, like a company or a relationship.
Collocations and Patterns
- 滅ぼす + もの (e.g., 国を滅ぼす): to destroy a country or entity
- 滅ぼす + 原因 (e.g., 会社を滅ぼす原因): cause of ruin
- 滅ぼすために + verb (e.g., 組織を滅ぼすために戦う): to fight in order to destroy
Register and Nuance
"滅ぼす" is more formal and literary than everyday words like "壊す" (to break) or "破壊する" (to destroy). It implies total and irreversible destruction. Avoid using it for minor damage or casual contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "滅ぼす" with "滅びる" (ほろびる), which is the intransitive form meaning "to be destroyed" or "to perish." Remember, "滅ぼす" is transitive and requires a direct object.