🗣️ demolish an argument
The Mental Picture
Picture a construction crew using a wrecking ball or controlled explosives to tear down an old, unsafe building until it is reduced to rubble.
🎧 How Fluent Speakers Use It
- "The defense lawyer systematically demolished the prosecution's argument line by line."
- "She didn't just disagree—she completely demolished his theory during the Q&A session."
⚖️ Sound Natural
| ❌ Stilted / Direct L1 Translation | ✅ Natural Target Expression |
|---|---|
| "He proved that her opinion was totally wrong and destroyed all her points." | "He completely demolished her argument." |
🧩 Quick Self-Test
Nuance Check
What is the difference between "criticizing a plan" and "demolishing a plan"?
Show Answer
Criticizing means pointing out a few flawed bricks or windows. Demolishing means destroying the entire structure so completely that the plan cannot be used at all.