Scathe

To scathe means to harm, injure, or damage, often through criticism, a harsh attack, or a destructive force. It implies a significant and sometimes lasting negative impact, whether physical, emotional, or reputational. This verb can describe the literal burning or scorching of something, or it can extend to figurative harm caused by words, actions, or circumstances. Scathing criticism, for example, can leave lasting emotional scars, just as fire can scathe flesh. The degree of harm can vary from minor to catastrophic, depending on the context and the severity of the action causing it.

Scathe meaning with examples

• The wildfire, whipped by strong winds, began to scathe everything in its path. Homes were reduced to ashes, and the once-lush landscape became a blackened wasteland. Animals fled in terror, and the air was thick with smoke. Firefighters battled tirelessly, desperately hoping to contain the blaze and prevent further scathe on the surrounding communities. Their efforts were herculean, but the fire continued to rage on, unyielding.
• Her stinging review of the novel, filled with acerbic wit and pointed criticisms, threatened to scathe the author's reputation. The harsh assessment, shared widely online, quickly became a point of contention, dividing readers and critics. The author, initially, defended the work against what they viewed as an unfair appraisal; nevertheless, the damage was already done, the negative reviews beginning to impact sales numbers of the novel.
• The economic downturn threatened to scathe the already fragile financial systems of several nations. Businesses failed, unemployment soared, and individuals struggled to meet their basic needs. The ripple effects of the crisis caused widespread fear and uncertainty. Governmental bodies raced against time to implement emergency aid programs, attempting to limit the scathe and stabilize the situation while helping the populations affected.
• The bitter remarks exchanged during their argument began to scathe their long-standing friendship. Hurtful words, once spoken, became a point of contention that would be difficult to repair. The trust they'd shared seemed to erode with each cutting remark, leading to a painful rift. The damage to the connection they valued was profound, as the emotional wounds inflicted would prove slow to heal, if they ever fully did.