Roleset decimate.01 Verbnet Class: NONE "destroy":

Roles:

Arg0:destroyer


Arg1:thing destroyed


Arg2:instrument of destruction

Examples:

no instrument (-)
Program traders argue that a reinstatement of the rule would decimate the ``pricing efficiency'' of the futures and stock markets.
Arg0:	a reinstatement of the rule
ArgM-MOD:	would
REL:	decimate
Arg1:	the ``pricing efficiency'' of the futures and stock markets




with instrument (-)
Mary decimated John's fragile self-esteem with a single dirty look.
Arg0:	Mary
REL:	decimated
Arg1:	John's fragile self-esteem
Arg2-with:	a single dirty look

Verbnet predicts an instrumental subject. They also bring the distinction between agent and instrument down to intentionality, which we've been trying to avoid. If you feel you can consistently make that decision, go ahead; otherwise only use arg2 when there is also an arg0.