What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
debacle
Example
The company's financial debacle led to bankruptcy. [debacle: noun]
Example
The team's performance was a complete debacle. [debacle: adjective]
disaster
Example
The earthquake was a natural disaster that left thousands homeless. [disaster: noun]
Example
The party was a disaster due to bad weather and poor planning. [disaster: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disaster is more commonly used than debacle in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and severity levels.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between debacle and disaster?
Both debacle and disaster can be used in formal and informal contexts, but debacle may be slightly more formal due to its association with business or political failures.