Synonyms for

Tragedy

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

Definition

A serious event or situation that causes sadness or disaster

Synonyms & similar words

disaster comedy cataclysm calamity catastrophe disaster calamity catastrophe misfortune mishap accident crisis fiasco blunder ruin devastation destruction meltdown downfall collapse defeat failure loss affliction sorrow

Synonyms by register

Formal

catastrophe calamity disaster adversity

Informal

mess disaster bummer downer

Literary

woe sorrow affliction

Antonyms

comedy joy happiness triumph success celebration delight

Common collocations

  • a terrible tragedy
  • a tragic tragedy
  • a national tragedy
  • human tragedy
  • personal tragedy
  • avoid tragedy
  • prevent tragedy

Word family

noun tragedy
verb tragicize
adjective tragic

Usage note

While 'tragedy' can refer to a dramatic work, it most commonly denotes a terrible event causing great suffering and destruction. Ensure you use 'tragic' as the adjective form.

Example sentences

  1. The car accident was a tragedy.
  2. The fire at the school was a tragedy.
  3. The hurricane was a tragedy for the people in its path.
  4. The loss of the championship game was a tragedy for the team.
  5. The death of the family's pet was a tragedy for them.

Quotes

  • The world is a tragedy to those who feel, but a comedy to those who think. - Horace Walpole
  • Tragedy is a tool for the living to gain wisdom, not a guide by which to live. - Robert Kennedy
  • Tragedy is when I cut my finger. Comedy is when you fall into an open sewer and die. - Mel Brooks

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