a big disaster

USAGE SUMMARY

"a big disaster" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used in a variety of situations to describe something that is extremely unfortunate, chaotic, or catastrophic. Example 1: The hurricane was a big disaster, causing widespread destruction and leaving thousands of people without homes. Example 2: The company's decision to cut corners resulted in a big disaster for their reputation and financial stability. Example 3: The concert was a big disaster, with technical difficulties and an unenthusiastic crowd.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

It generally ends up a big disaster.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a big disaster," he said.

The New York Times

Nothing!" Mr. Khan said it was a big disaster.

The New York Times

It's a big disaster, but there are opportunities there.

The New York Times

"Kicking off on 15 January might be a big disaster.

The Guardian - Sport

In others' minds, fracking in the United States has "all been a big disaster".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

If they had known that others had died, it would have been a bigger disaster".

Independent

It is a disaster for the BBC but a bigger disaster for the licence fee payer".

The Guardian

They are not experiencing the upheaval that might have come with a bigger disaster or greater loss.

The New York Times

Later, during the 9 p.m. broadcast, the radio host Neal Boortz called Mr. Obama "a bigger disaster to this country than 9/11," prompting condemnations by liberal critics the next day.

The New York Times

"We all know what a disaster it is not to be in the Premier League and it is a bigger disaster than ever before because the money has gone through the roof again," he said.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a big disaster", ensure that the context clearly establishes what event or situation is being described as disastrous. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific details or background information.

Common error

Be mindful of using "a big disaster" when the situation is merely inconvenient or mildly problematic. Save the phrase for truly significant negative events to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big disaster" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts. It labels and characterizes an event or situation as significantly negative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a big disaster" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a significantly negative event or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to use it appropriately for events that truly warrant such a strong description, avoiding overuse or hyperbole. Alternatives like "a major catastrophe" or "a devastating event" may offer more formal options. When employing this phrase, provide clear context to avoid ambiguity and ensure the gravity of the situation is understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major catastrophe

Emphasizes the scale and severity of the event, similar to "a big disaster".

a huge calamity

Highlights the disastrous and often sudden nature of the event.

a devastating event

Highlights the destructive and damaging impact.

a terrible tragedy

Emphasizes the sorrow and loss associated with the event.

a complete fiasco

Focuses on the utter failure and disorganization of a situation.

an utter failure

Stresses the lack of success and negative outcome.

a monumental setback

Emphasizes the significant hindrance and delay caused.

a crushing defeat

Focuses on the overwhelming loss and disappointment.

a total wreck

Stresses the complete disarray and ruin of something.

a significant setback

Implies a halt or regression in progress, emphasizing the negative impact but to a lesser degree.

FAQs

How can I use "a big disaster" in a sentence?

You can use "a big disaster" to describe an event with significantly negative consequences. For example, "The oil spill was "a big disaster" for the local marine life".

What are some alternatives to saying "a big disaster"?

Alternatives include "a major catastrophe", "a huge calamity", or "a complete fiasco", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a big disaster" in formal writing?

While "a big disaster" is widely understood, consider more formal alternatives like "a significant setback" or "a devastating event" in professional or academic contexts to maintain a higher level of formality.

What's the difference between "a big disaster" and "a minor setback"?

"A big disaster" implies a large-scale negative event with serious consequences, while "a minor setback" refers to a small, temporary obstacle or problem. The scale and impact are significantly different.