catastrophe

Everyday

1. A sudden terrible event that causes great damage or suffering, like an earthquake or flood. tree →
2. (informal) Something that goes very badly wrong. tree →

In the lessons

In geography and history lessons it describes natural disasters and wars; in everyday talk it can be a joking exaggeration ("the cake was a catastrophe"). Phrases: "a natural catastrophe", "end in catastrophe", "avert a catastrophe".

Examples

• The flood was a catastrophe for the town. tree →
• Scientists warn that the dam could fail and cause a catastrophe. tree →
• The volcano eruption was a catastrophe for Pompeii. tree →
• Our science fair project was a total catastrophe. tree →
• Quick action prevented a catastrophe. tree →
• Forgetting the tickets would be a catastrophe! tree →
• Such a catastrophe nearly happened to the young Englishman. tree →

Note

Pronounced "ka-TAS-truh-fee" with four syllables; the final e is said. Plural: catastrophes. Adjective: catastrophic.