catastrophe
word
Definition
A catastrophe is a sudden event that causes a lot of damage or suffering, often on a large scale, like a natural disaster, accident, or serious failure.
Usage & Nuances
Usually formal or dramatic; used for very serious events (not small problems). Often used with words like 'natural', 'economic', or 'environmental' before it ('natural catastrophe'). Similar to 'disaster', but may feel stronger or more literary.
Example Sentences
The earthquake was a catastrophe for the city.
basic
Losing all the data would be a catastrophe for the company.
basic
The oil spill turned into a major environmental catastrophe.
basic
Everyone panicked, thinking the storm would be a real catastrophe.
natural
If the project fails now, it’ll be a financial catastrophe for us.
natural
What happened at the factory was a total catastrophe—everything stopped working.
natural