calamitous situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "calamitous situation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a disastrous or disastrous situation. Example: The city was plunged into a calamitous situation when a major earthquake struck, leaving thousands homeless and causing widespread destruction.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The reason for this calamitous situation?

The Economist

The nation's educators should be dedicating every available resource to redress this calamitous situation.

The New York Times

Not only had Charles placed Sweden in a calamitous situation internationally but he had left behind him a legacy of domestic troubles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet, no one can ignore the calamitous situation press photographers now find themselves in, especially war photographers who risk their lives while barely making a living.

The Guardian

The present calamitous situation in the Middle East, the refugee crisis and financial meltdown, far from making me doubt Marxism, buttress its arguments.

The Guardian

The seeds of the Wests Tigers' calamitous situation were sown nearly two decades ago, a time that seems increasingly ancient, the dark days of the Super League war, when Rupert Murdoch marched on the game.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

HOMEOWNERS on the verge of foreclosure will often seek a short sale as a graceful exit from an otherwise calamitous financial situation.

The New York Times

Analysts say the calamitous economic situation in both countries could force Juba and Khartoum – with prodding from outside, particularly the US and China – to cut a deal to start the oil flowing again.

The Guardian

Many states are now in a calamitous financial situation.

Huffington Post

On Thursday, 11 March 2004, a terrorist bomb attack was perpetrated in Madrid, Spain, which led to one of the most calamitous mass injury situations of its kind in Europe during recent decades.

Critical Care

Occasionally, it seemed like no situation was too calamitous for Pitney to essay in song.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "calamitous situation", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific events or factors contributing to the calamitous nature of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "calamitous situation" to describe minor inconveniences or setbacks. Reserve it for truly dire circumstances to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "calamitous situation" functions as a noun phrase, where "calamitous" modifies the noun "situation". This phrase is typically used to describe a state of affairs marked by significant misfortune, disaster, or tragedy. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use across diverse contexts, all centering on severe negative circumstances.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "calamitous situation" effectively describes a disastrous or tragic state of affairs. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically sound and appropriate for formal contexts like news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While versatile, reserve its use for genuinely serious circumstances. For less severe situations, consider alternatives like "difficult situation" or "troubled times". When you do use it, ensure that you provide adequate context by describing the factors contributing to the disastrous state. Keep in mind, overuse can dilute its impact. This phrase can be useful in news, encyclopedias and science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disastrous circumstances

Emphasizes the circumstances surrounding the calamitous event.

catastrophic circumstances

Similar to 'disastrous circumstances', but implies a more widespread and devastating impact.

dire straits

Highlights the severity and urgency of the situation.

critical juncture

Focuses on the decisiveness and potential turning point of the situation.

precarious state

Highlights the instability and risk associated with the situation.

crisis point

Emphasizes that the situation has reached a critical and potentially dangerous stage.

troubled times

A more general term for a period marked by difficulties and hardship.

adverse conditions

Focuses on the unfavorable conditions contributing to the situation.

desperate predicament

Emphasizes the feeling of hopelessness and lack of options.

unfortunate state of affairs

A more formal way of describing an undesirable situation.

FAQs

How can I use "calamitous situation" in a sentence?

You can use "calamitous situation" to describe events like natural disasters, economic crises, or political upheavals. For example: "The flood created a "calamitous situation", leaving thousands homeless."

What are some alternatives to "calamitous situation"?

Alternatives include "disastrous circumstances", "catastrophic circumstances", or "dire straits", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "calamitous situation" in formal writing?

Yes, "calamitous situation" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when describing severe or tragic events. It is often found in news reports, academic papers, and official statements.

What distinguishes "calamitous situation" from a "difficult situation"?

"Calamitous situation" implies a greater level of devastation, tragedy, and widespread negative impact than simply a "difficult situation". Use "calamitous" when the circumstances involve significant loss or suffering.