Controls / The visual dictionary

Destructive button.

Signals an action that removes data or has a serious consequence.

Also calleddanger buttondelete action
01

See it in context

UI illustration
This removes the project.

A destructive action uses clear language and a cautionary treatment so the consequence is visible before activation. Severity should determine whether an additional confirmation or undo is appropriate.

When to use it

Name what will be removed and provide recovery or confirmation when the consequence warrants it.

Know the difference

A red button is not automatically destructive; the effect of its action determines the meaning.

WebiOSiPadOSAndroidmacOSWindowsLinux

Web

Use a native button for an action and an anchor for navigation. Preserve keyboard activation and a visible focus indicator.

iOS · iPadOS · Android

Provide a comfortable touch target, use familiar system symbols when appropriate, and show a clear pressed or selected state.

macOS · Windows · Linux

Keep pointer, keyboard, and focus behavior consistent. Common commands can additionally expose a menu item or keyboard shortcut.

Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.