sudden collapse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sudden collapse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unexpected and rapid failure or breakdown of a system, structure, or situation. Example: "The sudden collapse of the bridge took everyone by surprise and raised concerns about its structural integrity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The brave face, the sudden collapse.

The Guardian - Books

Romney suffers from S.C.I.P.S. — sudden collapse into passive syndrome.

The New York Times

Not the sudden collapse of Pax Americana, perhaps, but the gradual undermining of it.

The New Yorker

Unfortunately this makes her sudden collapse into madness and frailty less credible than it might be.

The New York Times

He said the problem wasn't a sudden collapse in the capacity of workers and factories.

The New York Times - Magazine

The other is that really harsh sanctions might bring about the sudden collapse of his regime.

The Economist

Then came World War I, followed by the sudden collapse of the monarchy.

The New York Times - Books

Inspired by his opponent's sudden collapse, Sampras cracked two volleys for winners.

The New York Times - Sports

What specific information have they heard or read about the company and its sudden collapse?

The New York Times

Mr. O'Neill said he was not surprised by the sudden collapse of Enron.

The New York Times

South Korea abhors the prospects of a sudden collapse of North Korea.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sudden collapse" to describe events that occur rapidly and unexpectedly, such as the failure of a structure, system, or organization. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is collapsing.

Common error

Avoid using "sudden collapse" for gradual declines or deteriorations. This phrase is best suited for events with a clear and rapid onset of failure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sudden collapse" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject or object, describing an event or state of rapid and unexpected failure. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

21%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sudden collapse" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to describe a rapid and unexpected failure or breakdown. Ludwig AI indicates that it is perfectly usable in writing. It is frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts, often used to highlight the abruptness and severity of an event. While alternatives like "sudden breakdown" or "abrupt collapse" exist, "sudden collapse" remains a versatile and widely understood phrase for conveying a sense of immediacy and surprise. Remember to use it for events that genuinely occur rapidly and unexpectedly to maintain accuracy and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sudden breakdown

Emphasizes a rapid cessation of function or operation.

sudden downturn

Highlights a rapid decline, particularly in economic or market contexts.

unforeseen collapse

Stresses the unexpected nature of the collapse.

abrupt collapse

Focuses on the sudden and immediate nature of the collapse.

sharp collapse

Highlights the steepness and rapidity of the decline.

precipitous collapse

Emphasizes a very steep and rapid decline.

dramatic collapse

Highlights the striking and impactful nature of the collapse.

violent collapse

Suggests a forceful and destructive failure.

unexpected failure

Highlights the surprise element of the failure.

catastrophic failure

Emphasizes the disastrous consequences of the failure.

FAQs

How can I use "sudden collapse" in a sentence?

You can use "sudden collapse" to describe unexpected failures. For example, "The "sudden collapse" of the bridge took everyone by surprise".

What can I say instead of "sudden collapse"?

You can use alternatives like "sudden breakdown", "abrupt collapse", or "unexpected failure" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "sudden collapse" or "gradual collapse"?

Both phrases are correct, but they describe different scenarios. "Sudden collapse" refers to a rapid and unexpected failure, while "gradual collapse" indicates a slower, progressive decline.

What's the difference between "sudden collapse" and "failure"?

"Sudden collapse" implies a rapid and unexpected failure, often with significant consequences. "Failure" is a more general term that can refer to any instance of not succeeding, regardless of speed or impact.