catastrophic result

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "catastrophic result" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an outcome that is extremely harmful or disastrous, often in contexts related to events, decisions, or actions that lead to severe negative consequences. Example: "The failure to address the safety concerns led to a catastrophic result, impacting the entire community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

So, this has been a catastrophic result for the Coalition".

The Guardian

The catastrophic result of all this obfuscation and procrastination is now undeniable.

The Guardian

"It seems to me it's a catastrophic result for the Tories.

The Guardian

So the catastrophic result can be shared by the whole group.

Independent

On the other hand, it can make mistakes without having a catastrophic result.

The Economist

The catastrophic result marked the second worst start to a Bundesliga season since Saarbrücken (1963-64) and left supporters seek solace in sarcasm.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The catastrophic results are well known.

The New York Times - Books

"Deviation from those instructions can have catastrophic results.

The New York Times

The process, known as benchmarking, has had catastrophic results.

The Guardian - Opinion

HENDRIK HERTZBERG: Neither did Ralph Nader, with far more catastrophic results.

The New Yorker

A physician's assistant mistakenly hit an artery, with catastrophic results.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "catastrophic result" to emphasize a severely negative outcome that has widespread or long-lasting effects. This phrase is effective when highlighting the gravity of a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "catastrophic result" to describe minor inconveniences or setbacks. This phrase is best reserved for situations with genuinely severe and far-reaching consequences to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "catastrophic result" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "catastrophic" modifies the noun "result". As Ludwig AI indicates, it is used to describe an outcome that is extremely harmful or disastrous, often in contexts related to events, decisions, or actions that lead to severe negative consequences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "catastrophic result" is a powerful way to describe severely negative outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English, emphasizing its role in highlighting disastrous consequences. Occurring most frequently in news and media, it is used to convey the gravity and wide-reaching impact of events. When using this phrase, remember to reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant such a strong descriptor, avoiding its overuse in minor contexts. Alternatives include "disastrous outcome" and "devastating consequence", which can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disastrous outcome

Replaces 'result' with 'outcome', emphasizing the final consequence of an event; less formal.

devastating consequence

Substitutes 'catastrophic' with 'devastating' and 'result' with 'consequence', highlighting the emotional impact.

tragic outcome

Replaces 'catastrophic' with 'tragic', focusing on the sorrowful or grievous nature of the result.

calamitous consequence

Employs 'calamitous' to intensify the negative impact and 'consequence' instead of 'result'.

terrible consequence

Uses 'terrible' to describe the severity of the consequence, making it slightly less formal.

horrendous outcome

Substitutes 'catastrophic' with 'horrendous', which can emphasize shock or disgust.

ruinous effect

Replaces 'result' with 'effect' and 'catastrophic' with 'ruinous', indicating something that causes collapse or destruction.

dire consequence

Uses 'dire' to suggest extreme urgency or seriousness of the outcome.

fateful consequence

Implies that the consequence was predetermined or unavoidable, adding a sense of destiny.

ill-fated result

Suggests the result was destined to be bad or unlucky, shifting focus to misfortune.

FAQs

How can I use "catastrophic result" in a sentence?

You can use "catastrophic result" to describe an outcome that is extremely harmful or disastrous. For example, "The lack of preparation led to a "catastrophic result" for the company's reputation".

What can I say instead of "catastrophic result"?

You can use alternatives like "disastrous outcome", "devastating consequence", or "tragic outcome" depending on the specific context.

Is "catastrophic results" grammatically correct?

While "result" can be pluralized in different contexts, "catastrophic result" typically refers to a single, overwhelmingly negative outcome. Using the singular form is generally more appropriate unless discussing multiple distinct catastrophic outcomes.

What's the difference between ""catastrophic result"" and "negative outcome"?

"Catastrophic result" implies a much greater degree of damage and widespread impact than a general "negative outcome". "Catastrophic" suggests a complete or near-complete failure with severe repercussions, while "negative" is a more general term for any unfavorable result.