Synonyms for

Emergency

Verb / ɪˈmɜ:dʒʌnsi: / / ˈi:mɜ:dʒʌnsi: / Another word for emergency — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a sudden serious or dangerous situation that needs immediate action

Synonyms & similar words

pinch exigency parkingbrake handbrake emergencybrake crisis disaster urgency catastrophe accident calamity trouble danger peril predicament plight difficulty distress hardship misfortune crunch pinch bind fix jam

Synonyms by register

Formal

contingency exigency predicament crisis

Informal

pickle jam tight spot fix

Literary

dire straits peril catastrophe

Antonyms

calm peace normalcy routine stability tranquility

Common collocations

  • emergency services
  • emergency room
  • emergency exit
  • emergency landing
  • emergency situation
  • emergency fund
  • emergency brake

Word family

noun emergency
adjective emergency

Usage note

While 'emergency' is primarily a noun, it can also function as an attributive adjective, as in 'emergency services'. It generally refers to a sudden, serious, and unexpected situation requiring immediate action.

Example sentences

  1. During the storm, we had an emergency when a tree fell on our house.
  2. If you feel like you're having a heart attack, it's important to seek emergency medical attention right away.
  3. Our school has an emergency plan in case there is a fire or other dangerous situation.
  4. The hospital has an emergency room for patients who need immediate medical care.
  5. The pilot declared an emergency when the plane started to experience engine trouble.

Quotes

  • In an emergency, what is needed is clarity, not speed.
  • An emergency is a situation that threatens a society.
  • In an emergency, we must all pull together.

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