Ruina

Ruina (Spanish/Portuguese/Italian) refers to the state of being ruined, destroyed, or decayed. It signifies the physical or metaphorical collapse of something that was once whole, functional, or prosperous. This destruction can stem from natural disasters, war, neglect, or internal decay. The term encapsulates the devastating consequences of loss, disintegration, and the aftermath of a calamitous event. It implies a lasting impact, where recovery is difficult or, in some cases, impossible, leaving behind remnants as a testament to its former state. The focus is often on the desolation, abandonment, and loss associated with the ruined state. The concept emphasizes the transformative power of destruction and its enduring presence, whether in a literal physical sense or a more abstract, emotional one.

Ruina meaning with examples

• The earthquake left the city in ruina. Buildings were crumbled, streets impassable, and the air thick with dust, a testament to the catastrophic power of nature. Survivors struggled to find food and shelter amidst the devastation, facing the grim reality of a landscape utterly transformed.
• Years of economic mismanagement brought the company to ruina. The factory, once a vibrant hub, was shuttered and abandoned, with rusting machinery and empty offices a stark reminder of its lost prosperity and hundreds of workers losing their jobs.
• The betrayal shattered their relationship, leaving their trust in ruina. Years of love and support had crumbled, leaving only bitterness, resentment and making any attempts to repair the damage impossible, a painful lesson learned.
• The ancient castle stood in ruina after centuries of conflict and abandonment. Its once-imposing walls were now overgrown with ivy, its towers crumbled, and its interior a labyrinth of crumbling stonework. The place was a haunting reminder of a glorious past.
• His addiction brought his life to ruina. His career, his family, and his health had all fallen apart, leaving him with nothing but regret and a desperate struggle to rebuild his life and overcome his self-destructive habits and a long road to recovery.