B1noun2K

Emergency

UK /["/ɪˈmɜːdʒənsi/"]/US /["/ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi/"]/

Definition

a sudden serious and dangerous event or situation that needs immediate action to deal with it

In simple words: A serious situation that needs quick action.

Examples

  • The hospital is prepared for an emergency situation at all times.
  • In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance.
  • The emergency exits are clearly marked throughout the building.
  • During the emergency, the community came together to support each other.

Usage notes

Use 'emergency' for situations requiring immediate help, like medical issues or disasters. Avoid using it casually; it's serious.

Grammar pattern

emergency + noun

Memory hint

Imagine you hear an 'emergency' siren, signaling the need for action.

Collocations

  • dire
  • extreme
  • major
  • have
  • cope with
  • deal with
  • arise
  • happen
  • occur
  • situation
  • action
  • measures
  • for emergency
  • in an emergency
  • in case of emergency
  • in case of emergencies
  • a state of emergency

Synonyms

  • crisis
  • disaster
  • urgent situation
  • catastrophe
  • problem

Antonyms

  • normal
  • routine

Common mistakes

  • Using 'emergency' to describe non-urgent situations.
  • Confusing 'emergency' with 'urgent' — not all urgent matters are emergencies.
  • Incorrectly saying 'an emergency situation' instead of just 'emergency'.