disaster Definition
- 1a sudden event, such as an accident or a natural catastrophe, that causes great damage or loss of life
- 2a complete failure, especially one that causes great harm or damage
Using disaster: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "disaster" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The earthquake was a major disaster, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
Example
The company's new product launch was a complete disaster, resulting in huge financial losses.
Example
The hurricane was predicted to be a disaster, but fortunately, it weakened before making landfall.
Example
The oil spill was an environmental disaster, causing long-term damage to the ecosystem.
disaster Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for disaster
- catastrophe
- cataclysm
- calamity
- tragedy
- misfortune
Antonyms for disaster
- success
- victory
Idioms Using disaster
go from bad to worse
to deteriorate or become increasingly negative or unfavorable
Example
After the initial earthquake, things went from bad to worse when a tsunami hit the coast.
the calm before the storm
a period of peace or tranquility before a difficult or turbulent period
Example
The day before the big exam was the calm before the storm, as everyone was studying and preparing for the test.
throw caution to the wind
to take a risk without considering the potential consequences
Example
He threw caution to the wind and quit his job without having another one lined up.
Phrases with disaster
natural disaster
an event caused by natural phenomena, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods, that results in significant damage or loss of life
Example
The government has implemented measures to prepare for and respond to natural disasters.
man-made disaster
an event caused by human activity, such as industrial accidents, nuclear meltdowns, or terrorist attacks, that results in significant damage or loss of life
Example
The Chernobyl disaster was a man-made disaster caused by a nuclear reactor meltdown.
a disaster waiting to happen
a situation that is likely to end badly or result in a catastrophe
Example
The old bridge was in such bad condition that it was a disaster waiting to happen.
Origins of disaster
from Italian 'disastro', from 'dis-' (expressing negation) + 'astro' (star), meaning 'ill-starred'
Summary: disaster in Brief
The term 'disaster' [dɪˈzæstər] refers to sudden events that cause great damage or loss of life, such as natural catastrophes or accidents. It can also refer to complete failures that cause harm or damage, like a product launch or oil spill. Common phrases include 'natural disaster,' 'man-made disaster,' and 'a disaster waiting to happen.' Idioms like 'go from bad to worse' and 'throw caution to the wind' describe worsening situations and risky behavior, respectively.
