VocabDictionary

catástrofe

/kaˈtas.tɾo.fi/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An event causing great and sudden damage or suffering; a disaster.

Example Sentences:
  • O terremoto foi uma verdadeira catástrofe para a cidade.
  • Medidas urgentes foram tomadas para evitar uma catástrofe ambiental.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “catástrofe”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek 'katastrophē' (καταστροφή), meaning 'an overturning' or 'sudden turn', composed of 'kata-' (down) and 'strophē' (a turning, from strephein 'to turn'). Historically used in drama to denote the denouement or fatal turning point of a plot, it evolved in European languages to describe any sudden and widespread disaster.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'cat' creating a 'trophy' level disaster by knocking over your most expensive vase.

Frequently Asked Questions About “catástrofe

1. What is the meaning of “catástrofe” in English?

In English, catástrofe (noun) is defined as: “An event causing great and sudden damage or suffering; a disaster.”.

2. How do you use “catástrofe” in a sentence?

O terremoto foi uma verdadeira catástrofe para a cidade.

3. What are English synonyms of “catástrofe”?

Common synonyms include:desastre,calamidade,tragédia,ruína

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “catástrofe”?

Derived from the ancient Greek 'katastrophē' (καταστροφή), meaning 'an overturning' or 'sudden turn', composed of 'kata-' (down) and 'strophē' (a turning, from strephein 'to turn'). Historically used in drama to denote the denouement or fatal turning point of a plot, it evolved in European languages to describe any sudden and widespread disaster.