Catastrophe
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3
Sudden and Severe
Use 'catastrophe' to describe events with immediate, widespread impact. After the dam burst, the resulting flood was a catastrophe.
Pro Tip 2/3
Human Suffering
Highlighting significant loss, physical suffering, or fatalities. The famine led to a human catastrophe, affecting millions.
Pro Tip 3/3
Not Personal
Refers usually to large-scale events, not personal misfortune. Losing your phone is not a catastrophe; it's an inconvenience.