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Cataclysm Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cataclysm

[ˈkætəklɪzəm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

natural disaster

A cataclysm is a sudden and violent event that causes great change or damage. It is often used to describe natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, or volcanic eruptions.

Synonyms

calamity, catastrophe, disaster.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cataclysm

Use 'cataclysm' when describing a large-scale, often natural, event that causes significant upheaval and change. This word has a very strong impact and is not typically used for everyday negative events.

  • The comet impact caused a cataclysm that reshaped the planet's surface.
  • Scientists predict that a supervolcanic eruption could lead to a global cataclysm.
disaster

Use 'disaster' for events causing significant damage, harm, or loss. This word is versatile and can be used to describe anything from natural disasters to personal or financial troubles.

  • The hurricane was a disaster for the coastal communities.
  • Losing the client's data was a total disaster for the company.
catastrophe

Use 'catastrophe' for sudden, disastrous events, whether natural or man-made, that result in significant damage or destruction. It is often used in news reports and serious discussions.

  • The earthquake turned the city into a scene of absolute catastrophe.
  • The oil spill was an environmental catastrophe that affected multiple ecosystems.
calamity

Use 'calamity' for serious events causing great harm and suffering, often involving human affairs such as wars or economic collapses. It can be used in both serious and somewhat dramatic contexts.

  • The economic crisis of 2008 was a calamity for millions of families.
  • Her unexpected illness was a personal calamity, disrupting all her plans.

Examples of usage

  • The cataclysm of the earthquake destroyed the entire city.
  • The town was never the same after the cataclysm of the hurricane.
  • The cataclysm of the tsunami left a trail of destruction in its wake.
Context #2 | Noun

drastic change

Cataclysm can also be used to describe a sudden and drastic change in a situation or society, often resulting in widespread upheaval.

Synonyms

revolution, turmoil, upheaval.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cataclysm

Use this word when referring to a large-scale, sudden disaster that causes significant change or destruction. It often implies a natural or cosmic event.

  • The earthquake was a cataclysm that reshaped the entire landscape
  • The ancient civilization fell due to a cataclysm
upheaval

Use this word to talk about a strong, often violent change or disturbance, especially one that alters an existing order or system.

  • The political upheaval led to the fall of the government
  • The cultural upheaval of the 1960s brought significant social change
revolution

Best used to describe a radical change, often in a political, social, or technological context. It often implies a deliberate and organized effort for change.

  • The Industrial Revolution changed the face of manufacturing
  • The country underwent a revolution that transformed its political system
turmoil

This word is suitable for describing a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty. It can refer to both personal and societal contexts.

  • The company fell into turmoil after the scandal
  • She was in emotional turmoil after the breakup

Examples of usage

  • The political cataclysm led to the overthrow of the government.
  • The economic cataclysm caused widespread unemployment and poverty.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'cataclysm'

The word 'cataclysm' originated from the Greek word 'kataklusmos', which means 'deluge' or 'washing away'. It was originally used to describe a large flood or inundation. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include any sudden and violent event causing great change or damage.

See also: cataclysmic, cataclysmically.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,396, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.