Disastrous: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in situations where the outcome was very unsuccessful or caused a lot of problems. It often refers to events with very negative consequences but doesn't necessarily imply complete destruction.

• The decision to invest all our money in that failing company turned out to be disastrous.
• Their performance in the exam was disastrous, and they failed to pass.

This word is suitable for describing events that lead to widespread damage and have serious, far-reaching effects. It is usually used for large-scale disasters.

• The earthquake had catastrophic effects on the city, leaving thousands homeless.
• A catastrophic failure in the engine caused the plane to crash.

Appropriate for situations where the impact is extremely severe and emotionally overwhelming. It is often used to describe both physical destruction and emotional or psychological impacts.

• The war had a devastating effect on the community, leaving many in deep grief.
• Losing his job was a devastating blow to him, both professionally and personally.

Use this when referring to something that causes a lot of damage or ruins something. It is often used in the context of physical damage or the impact of actions or behaviors.

• The hurricane was highly destructive, demolishing houses and uprooting trees.
• His destructive habits cost him his job and his friends.

Use this word when referring to an event or outcome that caused severe problems or damage. It typically implies that the situation has negative long-term effects.

• The hurricane was disastrous for the coastal communities, leaving many without homes.
• The company's decision to cut costs by reducing staff had disastrous consequences.

This word is used when describing an event that leads to widespread destruction or collapse. It often has a dramatic and intense connotation and can refer to natural or man-made events.

• The reactor meltdown was a catastrophic event for the region.
• The financial crisis in 2008 was catastrophic for many economies around the world.

Use this word to describe an event or situation that has a very harmful impact, causing intense sorrow or emotional pain. It's often used for personal and emotional contexts as well as large-scale disasters.

• The news of his sudden death was devastating to his family.
• The earthquake had a devastating effect on the small town, leaving many people without homes.