thrown into disarray

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thrown into disarray" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that has become chaotic or disorganized, often due to unexpected events or changes. Example: "After the sudden resignation of the CEO, the company's plans were thrown into disarray."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That outcome has been thrown into disarray.

The Guardian

Its efforts have been thrown into disarray by Babcock's approach.

The Guardian - Business

Oxford and Cambridge, however, were thrown into disarray.

The Guardian

The devolved Assembly has been thrown into disarray following the murder of Mr McGuigan last month.

Independent

If any of these charges hold up, the vote for president could be thrown into disarray.

The New York Times - Sports

The deal was thrown into disarray, however, when another bank, Wells Fargo, made a counter-offer.

The Economist

With the platform thrown into disarray, the company attempted to calm the community on Twitter.

The Guardian

But when Dido and Aeneas fall in love all is thrown into disarray.

The New York Times - Arts

Was your plane cancelled or have your carefully laid Christmas plans been thrown into disarray?

The Guardian - Travel

His business plans were nearly thrown into disarray when he lost his phone on a train.

The Guardian

The Cabinet was thrown into disarray as its members rushed from post to post.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thrown into disarray" to vividly describe situations where plans or systems are suddenly disrupted and disorganized. This phrase is particularly effective when emphasizing the unexpected nature of the disruption.

Common error

Avoid using "thrown into disarray" for minor inconveniences. This phrase implies a significant level of chaos and disruption, so reserve it for situations where the impact is substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thrown into disarray" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of significant disruption or disorder. It typically acts as a predicate complement, indicating the result of an action or event. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "thrown into disarray" is a grammatically sound and frequently used idiomatic expression that vividly describes a situation characterized by significant disruption and disorder. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, it effectively communicates the unexpected and chaotic nature of events that upend plans or systems. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, its impact is strongest when reserved for scenarios warranting its intensity. Alternatives such as "descended into chaos" and "fallen into disorder" offer nuanced variations, providing writers with a spectrum of options to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

been thrown into confusion

Emphasizes the mental state of uncertainty and lack of clarity.

become chaotic

This is a more direct and simple way of expressing the same idea.

descended into chaos

This alternative emphasizes the negative and uncontrolled aspect of the situation.

fallen into disorder

This highlights the lack of structure and organization.

been plunged into turmoil

Conveys a sense of severe disturbance and upheaval.

been disrupted

Focuses on the interruption of normal functioning.

been upended

Suggests a complete reversal and destabilization.

been sent into a spin

Implies a loss of control and a whirling, disoriented state.

been derailed

Highlights the failure to follow the intended course or plan.

crumbled

This single word is a simple and quick way of describing plans which have failed.

FAQs

How can I use "thrown into disarray" in a sentence?

You can use "thrown into disarray" to describe situations where plans, systems, or organizations are suddenly disrupted and disorganized. For example, "The company's plans were "thrown into disarray" after the unexpected resignation of the CEO."

What can I say instead of "thrown into disarray"?

Alternatives to "thrown into disarray" include "descended into chaos", "fallen into disorder", or "become chaotic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "thrown into disarray" in formal writing?

Yes, "thrown into disarray" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing significant disruptions or crises. However, ensure that the context warrants the intensity of the phrase.

What's the difference between "thrown into disarray" and "slightly disorganized"?

"Thrown into disarray" implies a significant level of chaos and disruption, while "slightly disorganized" suggests a minor lack of order. The former is used for substantial upsets, while the latter is for less impactful situations.