Catastrophic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for events causing great damage or suffering, often on a large scale.

• The earthquake had catastrophic consequences for the city
• The oil spill resulted in a catastrophic environmental disaster

Typically used for describing events or actions leading to complete failure or dire consequences.

• The failed experiment had disastrous results for the research team
• Their decision to invest in that project proved disastrous

Used for describing something causing severe shock, distress, or destruction.

• The news of his death was devastating to his family
• The hurricane left a devastating trail of destruction

Typically used for events causing great and often sudden damage or distress, usually over a period of time.

• The calamitous effects of the war lasted for decades
• His calamitous decision led to the company's downfall

Used for describing events with a very sad and unfortunate outcome, often involving death or great suffering.

• The car accident was a tragic event for the entire community
• Her untimely death was a tragic loss for everyone who knew her

Appropriate for describing large-scale and violent natural events or social upheavals.

• The asteroid impact had cataclysmic effects on the planet's ecosystem
• The revolution brought about a cataclysmic change in the country's political landscape

Used to describe events causing great damage or suffering, often on a large scale.

• The earthquake had a catastrophic impact on the city

Generally used to describe highly negative outcomes, often due to poor decisions or misfortune.

• Their attempt to climb the mountain ended in a disastrous failure

Used to describe situations causing severe shock, distress, or destruction.

• The news of his sudden death was devastating to his family

Used in formal contexts to describe events causing great distress or failure.

• The company's calamitous decision led to its bankruptcy

Used to describe events that are extremely sad or sorrowful, often involving death or severe loss.

• The loss of the young athlete in the accident was truly tragic

Often used in scientific or literary contexts to describe natural disasters or massive upheavals.

• The asteroid impact had a cataclysmic effect on the planet's climate