cataclysm

[ˈkætəklɪzəm]

cataclysm Definition

a sudden and violent event that causes great destruction or upheaval, especially a natural one such as an earthquake, volcanic eruption, or flood.

Using cataclysm: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cataclysm" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The cataclysm caused by the earthquake left the city in ruins.

  • Example

    The asteroid impact was a cataclysm that wiped out the dinosaurs.

  • Example

    The financial crisis was a cataclysm for many families.

  • Example

    The war brought about a cataclysmic change in the political landscape.

cataclysm Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for cataclysm

Antonyms for cataclysm

Idioms Using cataclysm

  • a situation or event that is likely to result in a disaster or catastrophe

    Example

    The unstable political situation in the country is a cataclysm waiting to happen.

  • to survive a major disaster or upheaval

    Example

    The company was able to weather the cataclysm of the financial crisis and emerge stronger.

  • a sudden and significant change that has far-reaching effects

    Example

    The advent of the internet brought about a cataclysmic shift in the way we communicate and do business.

Phrases with cataclysm

  • a natural disaster that causes widespread damage and loss of life

    Example

    The tsunami that hit the coast was a cataclysm of nature.

  • a war that causes widespread destruction and loss of life

    Example

    The Second World War was a cataclysm of war that changed the course of history.

  • an intense emotional experience that causes significant upheaval in a person's life

    Example

    The death of her husband was a cataclysm of emotions that she struggled to cope with.

Origins of cataclysm

from French 'cataclysme', from Latin 'cataclysmos', from Greek 'kataklusmos', from 'kata-' meaning 'down' + 'kluzein' meaning 'wash'

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Summary: cataclysm in Brief

The term 'cataclysm' [ˈkætəklɪzəm] refers to sudden and violent events that cause great destruction or upheaval, often natural disasters like earthquakes or floods. It can also refer to significant changes, such as those brought about by war or financial crises. Phrases like 'cataclysm of nature' and idioms like 'a cataclysm waiting to happen' denote the potential for disaster, while 'weather the cataclysm' implies survival and resilience.