Chaos: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when describing a situation that is completely out of control or lacks any order. Often implies severe disruption.

• After the earthquake, there was chaos in the city
• The unexpected announcement threw the office into chaos

Use when describing a lack of order or organization, often implies something is not functioning properly. Can be used both in physical and abstract senses.

• The living room was in disorder after the party
• The company's financial records were found to be in complete disorder

Use when talking about a state of being uncertain or lacking clarity. Often involves misunderstanding or inability to make sense of things.

• There was confusion among the students about the new schedule
• Her sudden departure caused confusion at the meeting

Use when something is untidy or not in the expected order, often referring to physical spaces or systems.

• The files were in disarray after the intern moved them
• His desk is always in disarray

Used to describe a state of complete confusion and disorder, often in everyday situations or events.

• The power outage caused chaos in the city.
• The classroom was in chaos after the teacher left.

Used in scientific, historical, or mythological contexts to refer to the primordial substance from which everything in the universe was created.

• Scientists theorize that the primeval matter was the origin of stars and galaxies.
• In mythology, the universe emerged from primeval matter.

Used to describe an empty space or a completely empty situation. It can also refer to feelings of emptiness or lack of purpose.

• The void between the galaxies is vast and dark.
• After the breakup, she felt a void in her heart.

Used to describe a deep or seemingly bottomless pit; metaphorically, it can refer to a profound difference or an unfathomable situation.

• Standing at the edge of the abyss, he felt an overwhelming sense of fear.
• Their relationship fell into an abyss of distrust.

Used to describe a state of complete confusion and disorder, often without any control.

• The sudden power outage caused chaos in the office
• After the accident, the intersection was in chaos

Describes a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty, often emotional or mental rather than physical.

• The company faced financial turmoil due to the market crash
• After hearing the bad news, she was in inner turmoil

Refers to a wild and noisy disorder or confusion, often involving a lot of people and noise.

• When the surprise guest appeared on stage, the crowd erupted into pandemonium
• The announcement caused pandemonium in the meeting room

Typically used to describe violent or extreme disorder, often involving physical destruction or injury.

• The riot resulted in mayhem on the streets
• Black Friday shopping turned into mayhem as customers fought over discounts