General terms:
* Ruins: This is the most general term, used for any remnants of a past structure.
* Remains: Similar to ruins, but often used for more fragmented or incomplete structures.
* Vestiges: This term emphasizes the idea of something that has survived from the past, often in a diminished or incomplete form.
Specific terms:
* Ancient ruins: Used for structures from ancient civilizations.
* Castle ruins: For the remains of castles.
* Temple ruins: For the remains of temples.
* City ruins: For the remains of ancient cities.
* Ruined abbey/church/house: For specific types of buildings in ruins.
Other terms:
* Archaeological site: This term refers to a location where archaeological evidence of past human activity is found, which may include ruins.
* Historic site: This term encompasses locations with historical significance, which may include ruins.
The best term to use depends on the specific context. For example, if you are talking about the remains of a Roman temple, you would use "temple ruins." If you are talking about a location where archaeologists have found evidence of a prehistoric settlement, you might use "archaeological site."