creating widespread devastation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "creating widespread devastation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or events that result in significant destruction or harm on a large scale. Example: "The hurricane was so powerful that it ended up creating widespread devastation across the coastal towns."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Though terrorists are likely to have fled in advance of the strikes, one senior military official said the camps had buildings and equipment worth destroying and military commanders chose a tactic intended to create widespread devastation.

The New York Times

A batch of them, timed to go off near-simultaneously and secreted on a series of trains, will cause devastation, overwhelming security services, wrecking vital infrastructure and creating widespread panic, all at minimal effort and expense to the terrorists.

The Economist

"We don't want to create widespread panic here, though.

The New York Times

suffered particularly widespread devastation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is massive and widespread devastation.

The Guardian

But organisations are being hampered by widespread devastation.

The Guardian

On August 29 , 2005 Hurricane Katrina caused widespread devastation to the Gulf Coast region of the United States.

Annals of Emergency Medicine

Widespread devastation in that state along with some closed Hudson River crossings complicated their travel.

The New York Times

The worst tremor, last August, had a magnitude of 3.4, hardly enough to cause widespread devastation.

The New York Times

The hardest hit towns — Petrópolis, Teresópolis and Nova Friburgo — have been scenes of widespread devastation since last week.

The New York Times

"The tree has been endangered in many countries because of this widespread devastation," Mr. Blanchette said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "creating widespread devastation", consider the active agent causing the devastation to provide a clearer understanding of the context. For example, specify whether it is a natural disaster, a conflict, or a policy that is "creating widespread devastation".

Common error

Avoid using "creating widespread devastation" in situations where the impact is exaggerated or not genuinely widespread. Use more specific and accurate language to describe the actual effects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "creating widespread devastation" functions as a verb phrase describing an action that results in significant and extensive destruction. Ludwig AI indicates that it is usable in written English to describe events that cause considerable harm on a large scale.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "creating widespread devastation" is grammatically correct and functions as a verb phrase that describes an action resulting in significant and extensive destruction. According to Ludwig AI, it's suitable for describing events causing considerable harm on a large scale. Though the phrase does not have exact matches in the provided examples, it is understandable given its components. Usage ranges from news reports to academic analyses, maintaining a neutral register suitable for objective reporting. While the phrase can effectively convey severity, writers should ensure specificity and avoid overuse in sensationalized contexts. Alternatives such as "causing extensive damage", "inflicting massive destruction", and "generating widespread destruction" offer nuanced alternatives depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generating widespread destruction

Highlights the creation of destructive effects.

inflicting massive destruction

Emphasizes the magnitude of the destruction.

resulting in mass destruction

More direct and emphasizes the destructive outcome.

causing extensive damage

Focuses on the damage caused rather than the broader concept of devastation.

leading to widespread ruin

Shifts the focus to the resulting state of ruin.

producing widespread wreckage

Emphasizes physical remains after destruction.

sparking broad devastation

Suggests a sudden onset of devastation.

unleashing widespread havoc

Conveys a sense of chaos and disorder.

fostering extensive ruin

Describes a nurturing or contributory action to the ruin.

precipitating widespread collapse

Focuses on the instigation of a complete breakdown.

FAQs

How can I use "creating widespread devastation" in a sentence?

You can use "creating widespread devastation" to describe events or actions that lead to significant damage across a large area. For example, "The earthquake was so powerful that it ended up "creating widespread devastation" across the coastal region."

What are some alternatives to "creating widespread devastation"?

Alternatives include "causing extensive damage", "inflicting massive destruction", or "generating widespread destruction", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "creating widespread devastation" formal or informal?

"Creating widespread devastation" is generally neutral in tone and can be used in various contexts, from news reports to academic analyses. However, consider the audience and purpose of your writing to ensure it fits the overall tone.

What is the difference between "creating widespread devastation" and "causing damage"?

"Creating widespread devastation" implies a higher degree of impact and scale than simply "causing damage". The former suggests significant and extensive destruction, while the latter can refer to more localized or minor effects.