overwhelming tragedy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overwhelming tragedy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that is profoundly sad or distressing, often evoking strong emotions. Example: "The overwhelming tragedy of the natural disaster left the entire community in mourning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

As Mr. Oppenheimer slowly gathers his threads, the characters live out their minidramas in the gathering shadow of overwhelming tragedy.

The New York Times

The first act of destruction was one filled with bright hopes, while the one that followed it was an overwhelming tragedy.

The New York Times

She could never have imagined that her surviving children would have to face such overwhelming tragedy - or the fight for justice they are now embarked on.

The Guardian

"In reality, you were the first responders to the overwhelming tragedy that struck our city that day," he told the dispatchers, who were given certificates of recognition.

The New York Times

Nothing less than a mighty chorus is needed to cope with this overwhelming tragedy -- a chorus comparable in its seriousness of purpose to the civil rights movement.

The New York Times

"We're so sorry," they repeated, and: "This is not us, this is not New Zealand". Some in typical New Zealand fashion were using black humour, evidently as a coping mechanism in the midst of an overwhelming tragedy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

One of the most overwhelming tragedies for me was seeing young children begging for pens when I was filming in Africa.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

How many more innocent lives need to be lost and how many families need to face such overwhelming tragedies before this nation finally tells the NRA to kiss its collective ass!

Huffington Post

Boosie speaks wistfully in the wake of an overwhelming family tragedy.

The New Yorker

No matter how overwhelming the tragedy, how bleak the outlook, no matter what malevolent forces the fates see fit to hurl at this tiny, beleaguered, mountainous, sun-splashed portion of the planet, there is no quit in the Haitian people.

The New York Times

A drifting journey through 70s Africa, full of overwhelming generosity and occasional tragedy.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overwhelming tragedy", consider the emotional impact you want to convey. Choose specific details to illustrate the scale and depth of the sorrow, rather than relying solely on the adjective "overwhelming".

Common error

Avoid using "overwhelming tragedy" as a generic descriptor. Instead, provide specific context and details to convey the magnitude of the event's impact and emotional weight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overwhelming tragedy" functions as a noun phrase, where "overwhelming" is an adjective modifying the noun "tragedy". Ludwig AI suggests that this expression is appropriate in written English. The phrase serves to intensify the impact of the tragedy being described.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "overwhelming tragedy" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe events marked by profound sorrow and devastation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves to emphasize the magnitude of the loss and suffering associated with such events. Its frequent occurrence in News & Media highlights its role in conveying the gravity of situations to a broad audience. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to provide specific details that illustrate the scale and depth of the tragedy, ensuring that it avoids becoming a mere cliché. Alternatives like "devastating calamity" or "profound disaster" can be considered to provide a more nuanced description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tragic event

A more general term, lacking the intensity conveyed by "overwhelming".

profound disaster

Underscores the depth and severity of the misfortune.

heartbreaking disaster

Emphasizes the emotional distress caused by the disaster.

devastating calamity

Emphasizes the sudden and ruinous impact of the event.

utter devastation

Stresses the completeness and totality of the destruction.

grievous loss

Highlights the feeling of bereavement and deprivation caused.

crushing blow

Highlights the impact of the tragedy as something that severely damages or defeats.

catastrophic event

Focuses on the disastrous nature of the event, omitting the emotional aspect.

extreme adversity

Highlights the hardship and suffering caused by the event.

terrible misfortune

General term for bad luck or adverse event.

FAQs

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

You can use "overwhelming tragedy" to describe events that cause widespread grief and devastation. For example: "The "overwhelming tragedy" of the earthquake left thousands homeless."

What can I say instead of "overwhelming tragedy"?

Alternatives include "devastating calamity", "profound disaster", or "tragic event", depending on the specific context and emotional tone you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "overwhelming tragedy" in formal writing?

Yes, "overwhelming tragedy" is appropriate for formal writing when describing significantly sorrowful events. However, ensure the tone remains respectful and avoids sensationalism.

What makes a tragedy "overwhelming"?

A tragedy becomes "overwhelming" when its scale, impact, and emotional consequences are so profound that they are difficult to comprehend or cope with. It often involves widespread loss, suffering, and lasting repercussions.