Undermine
mediumNegative toneUN-der-myn
verb
Definition
To weaken or damage something, especially gradually or insidiously
Memory hook
UNDER-MINE: Digging a MINE UNDER a fortress -- slowly weakening its foundation.
Examples
“His constant criticism undermined her confidence.”
“The scandal undermined public trust in the government.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His constant criticism ______ her confidence.”
Show answer
undermined
Categories
GRE Tip
Undermine is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "weaken" or "subvert" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "support".
Related GRE Words
enfeeble
To make weak or feeble
impair
to weaken or damage, especially in function
sap
(verb) To gradually weaken or destroy; to drain of energy
attenuate
To reduce the force, effect, or value of; to weaken
debilitate
To make weak or feeble; to impair the strength of
devitalize
To deprive of strength, vitality, or energy
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