Lacerating

Lacerating describes something that tears or wounds deeply, both physically and emotionally. It signifies a forceful action or a pointed remark that causes significant pain or harm. The word implies a sharp, cutting quality, suggesting that the impact is not only damaging but also potentially long-lasting. It can be applied to sharp physical injuries caused by cutting objects or to hurtful language and actions that inflict emotional distress or damage someone's reputation. Furthermore, 'lacerating' suggests a severity beyond mere injury, emphasizing the ragged, tearing nature of the harm.

Lacerating meaning with examples

• The jagged metal shards from the car crash delivered a lacerating wound to his arm, requiring immediate medical attention. Blood gushed from the deep cut as paramedics raced to his aid. The severity of the laceration was immediately apparent from the way his limb was torn.
• The journalist's lacerating expose of the corporation's illegal activities led to its immediate collapse. Her article, filled with harsh language, tore into the company's unethical practices. Many employees were made jobless because of the lacerating effect of the story on the markets.
• Her voice, filled with a lacerating tone of disappointment, shattered the carefully constructed illusion of happiness. The sharp words tore through the air, leaving a residue of tension and broken trust. It quickly became clear that she was hurting and that the message was one of betrayal.
• The critic’s lacerating review of the artist’s work destroyed her career, and public confidence. The cruel remarks highlighted technical flaws and perceived lack of skill. The artist's reputation was ruined by the lacerating impact on the markets.
• The politician's lacerating rebuttal during the debate exposed a web of contradictions in his opponent’s policy proposals. The sharp retorts exposed the flaws and led to a landslide victory for the opposing team. Many voters changed their minds due to the sharp cutting tone of the attacks.