Meaning & use
torched
Last updated
“torched” is a form of “torch”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
verbtransitive
set fire to something deliberately, especially to damage or destroy it.
Grammar: Takes an object: torched the building. Often used in passive: was torched.
Patterns
- torch something
- be torched by someone
Protesters torched several cars during the riot.
The abandoned warehouse was torched by unknown attackers.
He threatened to torch the whole field if they didn't pay.
verbtransitiveinformal
criticize or defeat someone severely, especially in a review or competition.
Grammar: Takes an object, often a person or their work: torched the opposition.
Patterns
- torch someone
- torch the competition
The critics absolutely torched his new movie.
The team torched their rivals in the final match.
Word forms
| third person singular | torches |
|---|---|
| past tense | torched |
| past participle | torched |
| -ing form | torching |
Common combinations
- torch a building
- The mob torched a building in the city center.
- torch a car
- They torched a car as part of the protest.
- be torched
- The shop was torched last night.
- torch the evidence
- He tried to torch the evidence before the police arrived.
Synonyms and how they differ
- burn
- More general; can be accidental or controlled, while 'torch' usually implies deliberate destruction.
- ignite
- More technical or formal; often used for starting a fire, not necessarily destroying a building.
- set fire to
- A phrase with similar meaning but often used when the act is intentional and criminal.
Opposites
Word family
- torch noun
- A burning stick or a flashlight; also the base verb.
- torcher noun
- Rare; a person who sets fires.
Commonly confused: torched or tortured? torched or touched?
torched vs tortured
Sounds similar but means 'caused great pain', not 'set on fire'.
torched vs touched
Different meaning; 'touched' can mean 'moved emotionally' or 'physically contacted'.
Practice
The angry crowd _____ the police car after the protest.
Choose one answer.
'Torched' fits because it means deliberately set fire to something, often in a violent context. 'Extinguished' is the opposite, 'ignited' is more technical and doesn't imply destruction, and 'burned down' usually means completely destroyed by fire, which may be too strong here.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “torched”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.