Armageddon: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in a religious or biblical context to describe the final battle between good and evil. It can also be used metaphorically to talk about a massive, decisive conflict or disaster.

• Many people fear that nuclear war could lead to an Armageddon.
• The movie portrayed an Armageddon where humanity was on the brink of extinction.

Generally refers to the end of the world or a catastrophic event that brings widespread destruction. Often used in both religious contexts and popular culture to describe a significant, disastrous event.

• The zombies in the book herald the apocalypse.
• Scientists warn of an environmental apocalypse if climate change is not addressed.

Best used to describe a violent natural event or a large-scale disaster. More commonly used in scientific or environmental discussions.

• The eruption of the volcano was a cataclysm that altered the landscape forever.
• The financial crisis of 2008 was considered an economic cataclysm.

Often used to describe a hypothetical scenario of complete and final destruction of the world. It has a more dramatic, sometimes sensationalist connotation.

• Doomsday predictions about an asteroid hitting Earth are frequent in the media.
• The survivalist was preparing for doomsday with stockpiled food and supplies.

Used mostly in a biblical or metaphorical sense to describe the final and most severe destruction or battle, often implying end of the world scenarios.

• Many people fear an impending Armageddon due to climate change.
• The movie depicted a world on the brink of Armageddon.

Often used to describe a sudden event that causes very great trouble or destruction, possibly on a large scale.

• The flood was a catastrophe that affected thousands of people.
• The accident caused a traffic catastrophe in the city.

A broad term used for any sudden event causing significant harm or damage, it can be used in personal, environmental, or economic contexts.

• The hurricane was a disaster for the coastal region.
• The project's failure turned into a financial disaster.

Used to describe a serious event causing great damage, distress, or suffering, but not necessarily on a global scale.

• The earthquake was a calamity for the small town.
• Losing his job was a personal calamity.