wreak
/ri:k/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Verb:
- To cause (something, typically something harmful or violent) to happen or occur: The verb "wreak" means to bring about or inflict a powerful, often destructive, effect or consequence. It is almost always used with an object denoting the resulting effect, such as "havoc," "destruction," or "vengeance."
- To express or vent (a strong emotion, especially anger) in a forceful way: This meaning involves acting out a powerful feeling, causing its effects to be felt by someone or something.
Examples of Usage
- Verb:
- The hurricane is expected to wreak widespread destruction along the coast.
- The new policy could wreak economic havoc on small businesses.
- He sought to wreak vengeance on those who had betrayed him.
- She wreaked her fury on the unfortunate messenger.
Advanced Usage
- "to wreak havoc": to cause widespread chaos, confusion, or damage.
- The computer virus wreaked havoc on the company's network.
- "to wreak vengeance/revenge": to inflict punishment or harm in return for an injury or wrong.
- The hero vowed to wreak vengeance on the villain.
Variants and Related Words
- Wreaker (noun, rare): One who wreaks.
- He was seen as a wreaker of chaos.
Synonyms
- Inflict: to impose something unwelcome, such as suffering or punishment.
- Cause: to make something happen.
- Unleash: to release a powerful force, often uncontrollable.
- Visit upon (formal/literary): to cause something unpleasant to happen to someone.
Related Phrasal Verbs/Constructions
(Note: "Wreak" is not typically used in standard phrasal verb constructions. Its usage is primarily with a direct object, as shown above.)
Related Idioms
- "To wreak hell" (intensified form): to cause extreme trouble or destruction.
- If the boss finds out, he'll wreak hell on the entire department.
Verb
- cause to happen or to occur as a consequence
- I cannot work a miracle
- wreak havoc
- bring comments
- play a joke
- The rain brought relief to the drought-stricken area