emergency
word
Definition
An emergency is a serious, unexpected situation that needs immediate action or help. It often involves danger, injury, health problems, or urgent damage.
Usage & Nuances
Common collocations: 'medical emergency', 'family emergency', 'state of emergency', 'emergency room', and 'emergency exit'. Use it for truly urgent situations, not small problems. In everyday speech, 'I have an emergency' can sometimes be used loosely, but in formal contexts it sounds serious.
Example Sentences
Call 911 if there is an emergency.
basic
This door is only for emergency use.
basic
She went to the hospital because of a medical emergency.
basic
Sorry, I have a family emergency, so I need to leave now.
natural
It felt like an emergency at the time, but everything turned out fine.
natural
Please don't use this number unless it's a real emergency.
natural