scale of devastation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scale of devastation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the extent or magnitude of destruction caused by an event, such as a natural disaster or war. Example: "The scale of devastation left by the hurricane was unimaginable, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Accidents are common, though the scale of devastation on Sunday was unusual.

The New York Times

The scale of devastation calls for an extraordinary assistance effort that is, so far, not happening.

The New York Times

When we crossed into Gaza the scale of devastation and the eeriness were immediately striking.

The Guardian

The scale of devastation here and throughout the north-west is impossible to put into words.

The Guardian

Lest one be confused about the scale of devastation he recommended, he cited Hiroshima and Nagasaki as examples.

The New Yorker

The scale of devastation in the north-west and the Gulf country has been described as an "inland tsunami".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Again, the underwater seascape was devastated by bleaching, and the scale of the devastation was beginning to sink in.

The Guardian

The scale of the devastation is almost beyond comprehension.

The Guardian

The scale of the devastation and human suffering was enormous.

The Guardian

"They do not know the scale of the devastation.

The Guardian

He was first struck by the scale of the devastation and the eeriness of the setting.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "scale of devastation" to effectively convey the comprehensive impact of a destructive event, ensuring your audience grasps the full extent of the damage.

Common error

Avoid using "scale of devastation" when referring to minor damages or inconveniences; reserve it for situations involving widespread and significant destruction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scale of devastation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It quantifies the extent and impact of a destructive event. Ludwig's examples show it used to describe aftermaths of disasters, wars, and other calamitous situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scale of devastation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that effectively conveys the magnitude and impact of destructive events. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used in news, formal, and scientific contexts to emphasize the extensive damage caused by disasters, conflicts, or other calamities. While alternatives like "extent of the damage" or "magnitude of destruction" exist, "scale of devastation" is a powerful and appropriate choice for emphasizing the widespread and profound consequences of destructive events. When using it, focus on reflecting the true scope and severity to prevent overuse in inappropriate situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

magnitude of destruction

Emphasizes the size and force of the destructive event.

degree of destruction

Highlights the level or intensity of the destructive impact.

level of destruction

Similar to 'degree', but emphasizes a specific point on a scale.

extent of the damage

Focuses on the physical damage rather than the overall impact.

breadth of destruction

Focuses on how widespread the destruction is.

severity of the impact

Highlights how serious or grave the consequences are.

scope of the disaster

Refers to the range or reach of a calamitous event.

impact of the catastrophe

Focuses on the effects and consequences of a major disaster.

proportions of the damage

Emphasizes the size and extent of the negative impact.

dimensions of the tragedy

Highlights the vastness and depth of a sorrowful event.

FAQs

How can I use "scale of devastation" in a sentence?

You can use "scale of devastation" to describe the extent of damage caused by a significant event. For example: "The "scale of devastation" after the earthquake was overwhelming."

What phrases are similar to "scale of devastation"?

Similar phrases include "magnitude of destruction", "extent of the damage", or "impact of the catastrophe".

Is it appropriate to use "scale of devastation" in formal writing?

Yes, "scale of devastation" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing significant disasters or events in news reports, academic papers, or official communications.

What's the difference between "scale of devastation" and "degree of damage"?

"Scale of devastation" typically refers to the overall impact and widespread destruction, while "degree of damage" focuses more on the level or intensity of damage in a specific area or to a particular object.