Synonyms for

Disaster

Verb / dɪˈzæstɜ: / Another word for disaster — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

an event or situation that is very bad, serious, or even tragic

Synonyms & similar words

tragedy cataclysm calamity catastrophe catastrophe calamity tragedy cataclysm misfortune crisis mishap accident problem adversity hardship ruin devastation blow debacle fiasco collapse downfall ruination affliction

Synonyms by register

Formal

catastrophe calamity misfortune tragedy

Informal

mess wreck fiasco snafu

Literary

bane scourge ruin

Antonyms

fortune success boon blessing prosperity advantage miracle

Common collocations

  • natural disaster
  • man-made disaster
  • economic disaster
  • disaster relief
  • disaster preparedness
  • disaster zone
  • worst-case disaster

Word family

noun disaster
adjective disastrous

Usage note

Often used to describe large-scale unfortunate events, both natural and man-made. Can also be used hyperbolically for minor mishaps.

Example sentences

  1. The hurricane was a disaster for the coastal town.
  2. The fire was a disaster for the familys home.
  3. The pandemic was a disaster for the world.
  4. The car crash was a disaster for the drivers involved.
  5. The failed project was a disaster for the company.

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