Understanding the Word "Devastated"

The question asks us to find the correct synonym for the underlined word "devastated" in the sentence: "The city was devastated by the earthquake." A synonym is a word or phrase that means exactly or nearly the same as another word or phrase in the same language.

The word "devastated" refers to causing severe and overwhelming damage or destruction to something. When a city is devastated by an earthquake, it means it has suffered immense and widespread harm, often leading to its complete ruin or making it uninhabitable.

Analyzing Synonym Options for "Devastated"

Let's examine each of the provided options to determine which one is the most accurate synonym for "devastated."

• Broken: This word means to separate into pieces as a result of a blow, shock, or strain. While a devastated city will have many broken things, "broken" implies damage that might not be total or widespread enough to describe the complete ruin of an entire city. For example, a window can be broken, but an entire city is usually not just "broken" by an earthquake; it experiences more severe damage.
• Shattered: This term specifically means to break into many pieces, typically as a result of a violent impact. It is often used for brittle materials like glass or ceramic. While some things in a devastated city might be shattered, the word "shattered" does not encompass the full scope of damage to structures, infrastructure, and lives that "devastated" implies for a whole city.
• Demolished: This means to pull or knock down (a building). While a devastated city will have many buildings that are demolished, this word often implies a more intentional act of destruction (e.g., "the building was demolished for new construction") or a very specific type of collapse. An earthquake causes widespread collapse and ruin, which is more general than just "demolished." However, it is a strong contender as it relates to buildings being ruined.
• Destroyed: This means to put an end to the existence of (something) by damaging or attacking it. When a city is "destroyed" by an earthquake, it means that its structures, infrastructure, and ability to function as a city have been brought to an end or severely compromised. This word accurately conveys the sense of complete ruin and widespread damage implied by "devastated." It signifies that the city has been ruined beyond recognition or immediate repair.

Comparing "Devastated" and "Destroyed"

The context "The city was devastated by the earthquake" suggests a comprehensive and catastrophic level of damage. Among the given options, "destroyed" most closely matches this intensity and scale of damage. "Devastated" implies ruin, and "destroyed" confirms that state of ruin. Both words convey a sense of total loss or severe damage to the point of being irreparable or non-functional.

Conclusion on the Best Synonym

Considering the magnitude of damage an earthquake can inflict on an entire city, "destroyed" is the most fitting synonym for "devastated." It best captures the idea of widespread, severe, and total ruin.