demoler
“demoler” means “to demolish” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to demolish
Also: to tear down, to knock down
📝 In Action
Van a demoler el viejo cine para construir un centro comercial.
A2They are going to demolish the old cinema to build a shopping mall.
El ayuntamiento decidió demoler el edificio porque era peligroso.
B1The city council decided to tear down the building because it was dangerous.
Las máquinas empezaron a demoler los muros exteriores esta mañana.
B2The machines began to knock down the exterior walls this morning.
to dismantle
Also: to tear apart, to refute
📝 In Action
Sus argumentos lograron demoler la defensa del abogado.
C1His arguments managed to dismantle the lawyer's defense.
El científico demolió la teoría anterior con nuevas evidencias.
C1The scientist tore apart the previous theory with new evidence.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: demoler
Question 1 of 3
Which form of 'demoler' is correct for 'I demolish'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'demoliri', which combines 'de' (meaning down) and 'moliri' (meaning to build or struggle). It literally means 'to un-build'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'demoler' used for breaking a glass?
No, 'demoler' is specifically for large structures like buildings or complex things like arguments. For a glass, use 'romper'.
How is 'demoler' different from 'destruir'?
'Destruir' is a general word for 'destroy' (like destroying a toy or a planet). 'Demoler' specifically implies taking down a structure intentionally, often with machinery.
Is it a common word in daily conversation?
It is quite common if you are talking about construction in your neighborhood or discussing a formal debate, but you won't use it for small household accidents.