undermine

• Verbe utilisé pour désigner l'action d'affaiblir ou de saper quelque chose, en particulier progressivement ou de manière cachée.

A verb used to indicate the act of weakening or damaging something, especially gradually or insidiously.

1. Weaken graduallyB2formal

   To damage or weaken something (such as an argument, system, or authority) gradually or insidiously.

   Affaiblir progressivement

   • The constant criticism began to undermine her confidence.
   • The scandal undermined public trust in the government.
   • His actions undermined the team's morale.

   Synonymescompromisedebilitatediminishenervateerodeimpairsapsubvertundercutweaken

2. Erode physicallyC1formal

   To wear away the base or foundation of something, often by water or other natural forces.

   Miner, saper (par érosion)

   • The river's current undermined the bank, causing it to collapse.
   • The roots of the tree undermined the foundation of the house.
   • Over time, the waves undermined the cliff.

   Synonymeseat awayerodehollow outscourundercutwash outwear away