undermine

v. 渐渐破坏,挖掘地基

An investigation carried out ostensibly to uncover subversive activities but actually used to harass and undermine those with differing views.

政治迫害表面上是开展揭露颠覆的活动，但实际上用于扰乱和削弱持不同看法的人的调查

Beware of the fifth column. They often infiltrate into key positions and seek to undermine the body politic from within.

要提防隐蔽的敌人，他们经常渗透到关键岗位企图从内部破坏国家政体。