Also means
to demote (in rank)
Usage Note
Dégrader is used for physical deterioration (le temps a dégradé le bâtiment) and figurative decline (dégrader les relations). In a military context, it means to strip someone of their rank. The reflexive se dégrader describes worsening conditions: la situation se dégrade.
Examples
"Les intempéries ont dégradé la façade du bâtiment."
Natural Translation
The bad weather damaged the building's facade.
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