great tragedy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "great tragedy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or profound event that causes great suffering or loss. Example: "The sinking of the Titanic was a great tragedy that affected countless lives and left a lasting impact on maritime safety regulations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"That's our great tragedy.

The New York Times - Arts

That's his great tragedy.

The New York Times - Magazine

And it was a great, great tragedy".

The New York Times - Sports

It was a great tragedy".

The New York Times

Great tragedy deserves great heroes.

The New Yorker

This is a great tragedy and loss.

The Guardian

"It's a great tragedy," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

Muhammad Ali thought this was a great tragedy.

The New Yorker

"This is a great tragedy," Major Kopy said.

The New York Times

"It's a great tragedy, but we have to move on".

The New York Times

This even occurs at moments of great tragedy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "great tragedy", ensure that the context warrants the intensity of the expression. Reserve it for events that involve significant loss, suffering, or widespread impact.

Common error

Avoid using "great tragedy" to describe minor inconveniences or setbacks. Overusing strong language can diminish its impact when used appropriately for genuinely serious events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "great tragedy" functions as a noun phrase, where "great" modifies the noun "tragedy". It is used to describe an event characterized by extreme suffering, loss, or misfortune. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0.5%

Wiki

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "great tragedy" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote events of significant loss and suffering. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and highlights its common usage in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. While it's important to use it judiciously to maintain its impact, it remains a powerful way to communicate the severity of an event. Alternative phrases such as "major catastrophe" or "profound misfortune" can be considered for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major catastrophe

Emphasizes the scale and suddenness of the disastrous event.

profound misfortune

Highlights the depth and personal impact of the adverse event.

significant calamity

Focuses on the disastrous and widespread nature of the event.

grievous loss

Directly expresses the feeling of sorrow and bereavement.

tremendous adversity

Highlights the hardship and suffering caused by the event.

terrible disaster

Conveys a strong sense of devastation and destruction.

deep sorrow

Emphasizes the emotional anguish and sadness experienced.

immense suffering

Draws attention to the extensive pain and distress involved.

grave misfortune

Stresses the seriousness and unfortunate nature of the event.

severe setback

Highlights the negative impact on progress or success.

FAQs

How can I use "great tragedy" in a sentence?

You can use "great tragedy" to describe events causing widespread loss or suffering. For example: "The earthquake was a "great tragedy" for the small island nation".

What can I say instead of "great tragedy"?

You can use alternatives such as "major catastrophe", "profound misfortune", or "terrible disaster" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to describe a personal loss as a "great tragedy"?

While personal losses are undoubtedly painful, referring to them as a "great tragedy" might be seen as hyperbole. Consider using alternatives like "profound loss" or "significant misfortune".

What distinguishes "great tragedy" from "minor setback"?

"Great tragedy" implies substantial and widespread suffering or loss, whereas "minor setback" refers to a temporary and easily overcome obstacle.