The word "without damage" is spelt as /wɪðaʊt ˈdæmɪdʒ/. The first sound /w/ is pronounced with rounded lips and is followed by the short vowel sound /ɪ/. The combination of /ð/ and /aʊ/ represents the word "without", with /ð/ being the voiced dental fricative and /aʊ/ being a diphthong that starts with the open back unrounded vowel /a/ and ends with the close back rounded vowel /ʊ/. The second part of the word, "damage", is pronounced with a short vowel sound /æ/, followed by the voiced consonant /m/ and the fricative /ɪdʒ/.
Without damage refers to a state or condition in which something or someone remains unharmed, uninjured, or unimpaired. It means that no harm, injury, or negative effects have been inflicted upon an object, entity, or individual.
The phrase can be used in various contexts, depending on the subject being discussed. For instance, in the context of physical objects or structures, being "without damage" implies that an item has not suffered any sort of harm or deterioration that could affect its functionality, appearance, or overall condition. This could include being free from cracks, chips, scratches, or any other sign of wear and tear.
In a similar vein, "without damage" can be used to describe a situation in which a process or action is carried out successfully without causing harm, adverse consequences, or negative impacts to anything or anyone involved. This could apply to activities such as construction, transportation, or any operation that requires diligence and careful handling to ensure that no harm or damage occurs.
Moreover, "without damage" can also pertain to individuals or living beings. In this case, it signifies that a person or animal has not sustained any physical or psychological harm or injury that could negatively affect their well-being, health, or ability to function normally.
Overall, "without damage" indicates a state of preservation, unharmed condition, or absence of negative consequences. It emphasizes the absence of harm, both tangible and intangible, and reflects a desirable state of being or outcome.
The etymology of the word "without damage" can be understood by breaking it down into its constituent parts:
1. Without: This comes from the Old English word "wiðutan", which is a combination of "wið" (meaning "against" or "opposite") and "utan" (meaning "outside" or "out"). Over time, it evolved into the modern English word "without", indicating the absence or lack of something.
2. Damage: This word originated from the Old French "damagier" (meaning "to damage" or "to injure"). The Old French term ultimately comes from the Late Latin word "damnum", which refers to "harm" or "loss". In English, "damage" refers to the harmful or detrimental effects on someone or something.
Combining "without" and "damage" gives the phrase "without damage", indicating the absence or avoidance of harm or injury.