a string of disasters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a string of disasters" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "The small town was hit with a string of disasters over the past year, including a hurricane, a fire, and a flood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

But nowadays, Nigeria's positive steps are being eclipsed by unfulfilled promises, uncontrolled violence and a string of disasters.

The New York Times

Silverberg, for her part, said that the experience was the latest in a string of disasters marked by heroism at the hospital: "9/11, Irene, and now this".

The New Yorker

It's official: François Hollande, the hapless French leader who has weathered a string of disasters since his election last May, is the least popular President in recent memory.

Independent

Peter Beresford, professor of citizen participation at Essex University, says Brexit is the latest in a string of disasters that has hit social care jobs.

The Guardian

The club's Olympic medal haul stands at 99, and, barring a string of disasters, that number looks sure to pass 100 this summer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was the latest in a string of disasters to hit Indonesia, including the December 2004 tsunami, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods and outbreaks of bird flu.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

A string of natural disasters has recently drawn attention to nuclear safety and natural disasters, including the Fukushima Daiichi quake and tsunami in March 2011, tornado damage near the Tennessee Valley Authority's Browns Ferry complex in April 2011, the Missouri River flooding that nearly inundated two reactors in Nebraska last summer and the quake near Mineral, Va., last August.

The New York Times

Prices for insurance had soared because of claims from asbestos-related illnesses and a string of natural disasters.In this section Pulling teeth Double standards Disaster relief Mortgaging: Japan's future Beneath that healthy exterior Here we don't go again Saturated solution ReprintsEXEL (the firm changed its name to XL last year) was formed in 1986, with similar rules.

The Economist

Destructive bushfires are frequent in Australia during the summer months, with a string of similar disasters emerging in recent weeks.

Independent

a resident of Harrisburg, Ill., which has suffered a string of natural disasters, including a tornado system that left at least six people dead there this week.

The New York Times

Appreciation for Benedict's contributions was heard in the Philippines as well, where his years coincided with extreme election violence and a string of natural disasters.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a string of disasters", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes a 'disaster'. Be specific about the nature and impact of these events to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a string of disasters" to describe minor inconveniences or setbacks. Reserve it for situations involving significant negative impact or widespread damage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a string of disasters" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It describes a sequence of unfortunate events. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a string of disasters" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a series of unfortunate events. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and versatile, fitting into various contexts ranging from formal news reports to more informal discussions. While it is most frequently found in news and media sources, its application spans across formal and business contexts as well. When using the phrase, ensure that the events truly warrant the term 'disaster' to avoid hyperbole. Alternatives such as "a series of misfortunes" or "a succession of calamities" can be considered based on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of misfortunes

Focuses on general bad luck or unfortunate events, less intense than 'disasters'.

a succession of calamities

Implies events that are catastrophic and may have widespread impact.

a chain of unfortunate events

Emphasizes the interconnectedness and sequence of negative happenings.

a barrage of crises

Conveys a sense of being overwhelmed by numerous urgent problems.

an avalanche of setbacks

Suggests a large and overwhelming number of obstacles or failures.

a cluster of mishaps

Downplays the severity, implying minor and unintentional negative events.

a run of bad luck

Informal, indicating a period of general misfortune.

a litany of woes

Formal and somewhat poetic, referring to a long list of sorrows or troubles.

a chapter of accidents

Suggests a period marked by unintended and unfortunate events.

a streak of failures

Focuses specifically on a sequence of unsuccessful attempts or outcomes.

FAQs

What does "a string of disasters" mean?

The phrase "a string of disasters" refers to a series or sequence of unfortunate events, typically involving significant damage, loss, or suffering.

How can I use "a string of disasters" in a sentence?

You might say, "The company faced "a string of disasters", including a fire, a lawsuit, and a product recall."

What are some alternatives to "a string of disasters"?

You can use alternatives like "a series of misfortunes", "a succession of calamities", or "a chain of unfortunate events" depending on the specific context.

Is "a string of disasters" formal or informal?

The phrase "a string of disasters" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the communication.