"damage to" vs "damage on"

Question

"damage to" vs "damage on"

Both 'damage on' and 'damage to' are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in different contexts. 'Damage on' is used when referring to the surface or exterior of an object that has been harmed, while 'damage to' is used when indicating harm or injury to the interior or overall structure of an object.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

Use 'damage to' when describing harm or injury that affects the interior or overall structure of an object.

Examples:

The storm caused extensive damage to the roof of the house.
There was significant damage to the engine of the car.
The flood caused irreparable damage to the foundation of the building.
The fire resulted in damage to the entire structure of the house.
The accident caused damage to the internal components of the computer.

Alternatives:

damage on the
harm to
injury to
deterioration to
impact to

Use 'damage on' when describing harm or injury that is visible on the surface or exterior of an object.

Examples:

The damage on the car was extensive after the accident.
There was noticeable damage on the walls of the old building.
The storm caused damage on the roof of the house.
The scratches on the table were the result of damage on the surface.
The damage on the painting was carefully restored by a professional.

Alternatives:

damage to the
harm on
injury on
deterioration on
impact on

Answer 1

damage to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when indicating harm or injury to the interior or overall structure of an object.

Answer 2

damage on

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to the surface or exterior of an object that has been harmed.

"damage to" vs "damage on"

damage to

damage on

Related Comparisons