disastrous event

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disastrous event" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an occurrence that has caused significant harm or negative consequences. Example: "The earthquake was a disastrous event that left the city in ruins and its residents in despair."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Yet this can be the disastrous event that sets all the others in motion.

The New Yorker

A Republican victory would be a disastrous event for the country and the planet.

The New York Times

But the hurricane, which he called "a disastrous event of biblical proportions," spurred a reassessment.

The New York Times

This disastrous event should alter the Obama administration's plan to bring oil rigs closer to Florida's coastline.

The New York Times

Now, "absent some real shocker in the debates or some real disastrous event overseas," John Cassidy has a hard time seeing how Romney could win.

The New Yorker

Meredith's heedless actions once again precipitate a disastrous event, but in the second instance this is more deus ex machina than the organic product of what's come before.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

The Japanese rely on the same aphorisms to cover much more disastrous events.

The New York Times - Magazine

Currently, the government does not have a strategic program planning capability for these potentially disastrous events.

The New York Times

From prisoners of war to members of Congress, Americans joked about serious subjects, meeting disastrous events with goofy gags.

The New York Times

Yet the panel places no fault on Mr. Rumsfeld for the cascade of disastrous events that followed.

The New York Times

Viewing the show, I had a sense of it as an instant time capsule, of a summary statement overtaken by disastrous events.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "disastrous event", ensure the context clearly illustrates the severity and negative impact of the event. Provide specific details to emphasize the extent of the damage or consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "disastrous event" to describe minor inconveniences or setbacks. Reserve it for situations with truly significant negative consequences to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disastrous event" functions as a noun phrase, where "disastrous" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "event". Ludwig AI confirms its correctness for describing significantly negative occurrences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "disastrous event" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe an occurrence with significant negative consequences. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for use in written English across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and formal settings. While there are many semantically similar alternatives, the key is to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the severity of the situation and to avoid overuse in minor contexts. Understanding the proper usage and nuances of "disastrous event" can enhance clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

catastrophic occurrence

Emphasizes the scale and devastating impact of the event.

tragic incident

Focuses on the sorrowful and lamentable nature of the event.

calamitous episode

Highlights the disastrous and unfortunate nature of the event.

devastating happening

Underscores the event's destructive and ruinous effects.

unfortunate circumstance

Subtler way to describe a negative event, downplaying its severity.

adverse situation

Highlights the unfavorable and challenging aspects of the event.

ill-fated occurrence

Focuses on the unfortunate destiny or predetermined negativity of the event.

grievous blow

Emphasizes the severe and painful impact of the event.

major setback

Describes the event as a significant impediment to progress or success.

critical failure

Focuses on the event as a significant breakdown or malfunction with severe consequences.

FAQs

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

You can use "disastrous event" to describe occurrences with significant negative consequences. For example, "The hurricane was a "disastrous event" that devastated the coastal region."

What are some alternatives to "disastrous event"?

Alternatives include "catastrophic occurrence", "tragic incident", or "calamitous episode", depending on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "disastrous event"?

Use "disastrous event" when describing a situation that has caused substantial harm, damage, or negative consequences. Ensure that the scale of the event warrants such a strong description.

Is there a difference between "disastrous event" and "unfortunate incident"?

"Disastrous event" implies a greater degree of severity and impact compared to "unfortunate incident". The former suggests widespread damage or significant negative consequences, while the latter might refer to a localized or less impactful occurrence.