Debacle: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is best used to describe a complete and sudden collapse or failure, usually accompanied by chaos or disarray.

• The launch of the new product turned into a debacle when the software didn't work correctly.
• The company's debacle was evident when their stocks plummeted overnight.

This term is appropriate for describing a sudden event or series of events causing great harm, damage, or adverse impact. It often carries a connotation of unexpected calamity.

• The flood was a natural disaster that left many people homeless.
• Her birthday party turned into a disaster when the cake caught fire.

Used to denote the lack of success in achieving a goal or objective. It has a more general application and not necessarily implies chaos or disaster.

• The experiment was a failure because the results were inconclusive.
• Despite her efforts, she considered her attempt to learn French a failure.

This word is suitable for describing an event that is not just a failure but an embarrassingly bad situation, often highlighting incompetence or poor planning.

• The presentation was a fiasco since the projector didn't work, and the slides were out of order.
• Her first attempt at baking a cake was a complete fiasco; it tasted terrible.