calamity
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “calamity” mean?
noun.an event causing great and often sudden damage or distress; a disaster.
SAT Usage
This term often appears in contexts related to historical events, natural disasters, or personal tragedies. It emphasizes the severity and immediate impact of an event, distinguishing itself from similar words like "misfortune," which may not convey the same level of urgency or widespread destruction.
Common Confusions
Calamity implies a sudden and severe disaster, while misfortune usually suggests a less impactful or ongoing series of unfortunate events.
Do not choose calamity if the context emphasizes a minor inconvenience or trivial issue rather than an event causing great and often sudden damage or distress.
Example Sentences
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The earthquake was a calamity for the entire region.