cataclysmic event

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cataclysmic event" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase to describe an event that causes drastic and sudden change or destruction. For example, "The earthquake was a cataclysmic event that affected the entire region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And obviously a cataclysmic event has occurred," he said.

The New York Times

But the next cataclysmic event in her life came unbidden.

The New Yorker

Usually, we look for some kind of cataclysmic event.

The New Yorker

Yes, occasionally there will be some cataclysmic event.

The New York Times

A cataclysmic event can change the fate of a movie.

The New York Times

This is a very traumatic and cataclysmic event.

The New York Times - Magazine

The miners' strike of 1984-85 is the most cataclysmic event in postwar British history.

The Guardian

The engineers warned that the Harmon could collapse in some sort of cataclysmic event.

The New York Times

The period passed quietly, without a cataclysmic event, like a mass blackout.

The New York Times

The new policy was adopted in response to a cataclysmic event.

The Economist

It becomes evident that this is a manifestation of a cataclysmic event affecting the wider world beyond the village.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cataclysmic event" to describe events with widespread and devastating consequences that alter the course of history or significantly impact society.

Common error

Avoid using "cataclysmic event" for minor inconveniences or everyday problems. The phrase implies a scale of destruction and change that should match the gravity of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cataclysmic event" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "cataclysmic" modifies the noun "event". Ludwig AI confirms it’s usable in writing, serving to describe a notably destructive occurrence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cataclysmic event" is a correct and frequently used expression to describe a devastating occurrence with far-reaching consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its suitability in written English. Its usage spans across various contexts, prominently in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. While alternatives like "disastrous occurrence" or "devastating incident" exist, "cataclysmic event" effectively conveys the gravity and impact of a situation. Remember to reserve this powerful phrase for events of significant magnitude to avoid diluting its effect. Source quality analysis confirms its reliability, drawing from authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disastrous occurrence

Replaces "cataclysmic" with a less intense but similar adjective, focusing on the negative outcome.

devastating incident

Emphasizes the destructive impact of the event.

calamitous episode

Uses a more formal synonym for "cataclysmic" and a different noun for "event".

tragic happening

Highlights the sorrowful nature of the event.

major catastrophe

Focuses on the scale and severity of the event's impact.

sudden upheaval

Emphasizes the abrupt and disruptive nature of the event.

momentous disaster

Combines the significance and disastrous nature of the event.

transformative crisis

Highlights the potential for significant change resulting from the event.

world-shattering occurrence

Exaggerates the impact to emphasize widespread devastation.

game-changing disruption

Focuses on how the event fundamentally alters the existing situation.

FAQs

How can I use "cataclysmic event" in a sentence?

You can use "cataclysmic event" to describe a sudden and devastating occurrence that causes significant damage or change. For example, "The asteroid impact was a "cataclysmic event" that reshaped the planet's surface."

What are some synonyms for "cataclysmic event"?

Alternatives include "disastrous occurrence", "devastating incident", or "major catastrophe". The best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

What makes an event "cataclysmic"?

A "cataclysmic event" is characterized by its suddenness, destructiveness, and far-reaching consequences. It typically involves widespread devastation, significant loss of life, and a lasting impact on the affected area or population.

Is it appropriate to use "cataclysmic event" in a metaphorical sense?

While primarily used to describe literal disasters, "cataclysmic event" can be used metaphorically to describe personal or professional crises that cause significant upheaval and change. However, use caution to avoid exaggeration or trivialization.