How did Debussy drown the sense of tonality?

Debussy drowned the sense of tonality by employing innovative harmonic techniques that moved away from traditional Western tonal structures. He often used modes, whole-tone scales, and pentatonic scales, which created ambiguity in tonal center. Additionally, his use of non-functional harmonies and unresolved chords contributed to a more fluid and impressionistic sound, allowing for a more atmospheric rather than tonal approach to music. This approach shifted the focus from strict harmonic progression to color, texture, and mood.