What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disaster
Example
The earthquake was a disaster for the small town. [disaster: noun]
Example
The company suffered a disaster when their main server crashed. [disaster: noun]
cataclysm
Example
The cataclysmic earthquake destroyed the entire city. [cataclysmic: adjective]
Example
The fall of the Roman Empire was a cataclysm that changed the course of history. [cataclysm: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disaster is a more common word than cataclysm and is used more frequently in everyday language. Disaster is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cataclysm is less common and is typically reserved for more extreme and catastrophic events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disaster and cataclysm?
Both disaster and cataclysm can be used in formal or informal contexts. However, cataclysm may be considered more formal due to its less frequent usage and more dramatic connotation.
