Definition of Undermine
Undermine is a verb that means to weaken, erode, or gradually damage something, often in a covert or indirect way. It can refer to physical erosion, the weakening of authority, confidence, or effectiveness, or the gradual sabotage of plans and structures.
Example Usage:
- The scandal threatened to undermine the leader’s authority.
- Years of neglect had undermined the foundation of the bridge.
- Negative remarks can undermine a person’s confidence.
Synonyms of Undermine
Strongest Matches (Most Direct Synonyms)
- Sabotage
- Weaken
- Erode
- Diminish
- Destabilize
- Subvert
- Corrode
- Debilitate
- Impair
- Undercut
Strong Matches
- Disrupt
- Compromise
- Hinder
- Weary
- Detract
- Cripple
- Enfeeble
- Undervalue
- Sap
- Wear away
Weak Matches
- Oppose
- Challenge
- Discredit
- Frustrate
- Exhaust
- Underrate
- Question
- Undervalue
- Obstruct
- Undermine confidence
Contextual Usage of Undermine
Business and Workplace
- Spreading false rumors can undermine workplace morale.
- A lack of transparency in leadership may undermine employee trust.
Politics and Governance
- Corruption has undermined the credibility of the administration.
- The opposition party aims to undermine the ruling government’s policies.
Relationships and Personal Interactions
- Constant criticism can undermine a child’s self-esteem.
- Betrayal can undermine the foundation of a friendship.
Structural and Physical Contexts
- The heavy rains have undermined the stability of the bridge.
- Over-mining in the area has undermined the land’s integrity.
Related Words and Phrases
- Contradict: To express the opposite of something, which can lead to undermining.
- Invalidate: To nullify or make something ineffective.
- Discredit: To cause doubt or damage someone’s reputation.
- Devalue: To reduce in worth or importance.
- Weaken: To make less strong or effective.
- Subvert: To undermine authority or an established system.
- Erode: To wear away or deteriorate gradually.
- Sabotage: To deliberately destroy or obstruct something.
Additional Information
Etymology of Undermine
The word “undermine” originates from Middle English (late 14th century), meaning “to dig under, excavate beneath,” used literally for tunnels and figuratively for weakening power or integrity. It combines “under” (beneath) and “mine” (digging, tunneling).
Common Collocations
- Undermine authority
- Undermine credibility
- Undermine democracy
- Undermine confidence
- Undermine trust
- Undermine stability
Psychological and Social Effects
- Gaslighting: A form of psychological manipulation that aims to undermine a person’s perception of reality.
- Self-Doubt: Continuous criticism can undermine one’s confidence, leading to self-doubt and insecurity.
Disclaimer
This page provides general linguistic and contextual information about the word “undermine.” It is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Definitions, synonyms, and usage examples are based on publicly available linguistic sources and may vary depending on context and interpretation.
