vernichtend
Translation
devastating, annihilating, crushing, scathing
Examples
Die Kritik war vernichtend.
The criticism was devastating.
Das Urteil war ein vernichtender Schlag.
The verdict was a crushing blow.
Grammar Patterns
((Adjective)) devastating, crushing ein vernichtendes Urteil
Similar Words
Synonyms: zerstörerisch, verheerend; Antonyms: aufbauend, konstruktiv
Etymology
From the verb 'vernichten' (to annihilate), composed of 'ver-' (a prefix indicating completion or destruction) and 'nicht' (not, nothing). Literally 'to make into nothing'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'ver-NICHT-en' as turning something into 'nicht' (nothing). 'vernichtend' is the adjective form, describing something that has this effect.