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), which combines 'ver-' (a prefix often implying completion or a negative outcome) and 'nicht' (not, nothing). It means 'to turn into nothing'.
Memory Tips
Remember that 'ver-NICHT-en' means to make something into 'nicht' (nothing). 'vernichtend' describes something with that power, like devastating criticism.