A2noun1K

Disaster

UK //dɪˈzɑːstə//US //dɪˈzæs.tɚ//

Definition

A sudden event causing great damage or suffering.

In simple words: A very bad event that causes a lot of damage or harm.

Examples

  • The earthquake was a major disaster that changed the city forever.
  • After the disaster, many people needed help and support.
  • Natural disasters can happen without warning, causing loss of life and property.
  • The floods last year were the worst disaster in the region's history.
  • They had to create a plan to recover from the financial disaster.

Usage notes

Used to describe events like natural calamities or serious accidents. It is neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'dis and ast-er'—'dis' means bad and ‘aster’ sounds like stars, which can fall during a disaster.

Collocations

  • natural disaster
  • major disaster
  • disaster relief
  • disaster management
  • disaster area

Synonyms

  • catastrophe
  • tragedy
  • calamity
  • crisis
  • emergency

Antonyms

  • success
  • benefit
  • advantage

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'disastrous', which is an adjective.
  • Using it in singular only; it can be pluralized as 'disasters'.