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Definition
Great calamity; a severe catastrophe involving heavy casualties and damage.
neutralother
How it's used
Reserved for events of massive, often existential scale, this term carries a heavy, dramatic weight that goes far beyond a simple accident or local disaster. It is frequently used in news reports or formal discussions regarding war, natural disasters, or global crises. Using it to describe minor inconveniences or personal bad luck will sound hyperbolic and unnatural.
Examples
This pandemic is simply a catastrophe for humanity.
Why do so many catastrophes happen in this world?
Related words
Common phrases
a catastrophe
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe personal misfortunes or small-scale problems, as it is reserved for events involving widespread destruction or loss of life.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
