Use 'in ruins' to emphasize the visible devastation of something, often with emotional effect.

Visual Impact

Apply 'in ruins' when discussing historical buildings or cities that have been destroyed in the past.

Historical Context

'In ruins' can be used metaphorically to describe something that is not physically destroyed, like plans or hopes.

Indicates a situation or object that is so neglected, it cannot easily be restored to its original state.

Suggests a strong sense of failure or collapse in areas like careers, reputations, or relationships.

Refers specifically to severe financial loss, indicating a state that is difficult to recover from.

When talking about finances, 'in ruins' is not taken literally but signifies drastic economic downturn.