Cataclysmic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Cataclysmic describes an event that causes sudden and violent change or destruction, often on a large scale. It is used to emphasize the devastating impact of natural disasters, wars, or major upheavals.
cataclysmic
Definition:
Relating to a sudden, violent event causing great destruction or change.
Synonyms:
catastrophic, devastating, disastrous, calamitous
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
peaceful, uneventful
Common Collocations:
cataclysmic event, cataclysmic change, cataclysmic disaster
Derivatives:
cataclysm, cataclysmically
Usage Tips:
Use "cataclysmic" for events with massive, often destructive impact, like natural disasters or revolutions.
Common Phrases:
"cataclysmic shift, " "cataclysmic eruption, " "cataclysmic upheaval"
Etymology:
From Greek *kataklysmos* (deluge), from *kata-* (down) + *klyzein* (to wash).
Examples:
- 1. The earthquake had a cataclysmic effect on the city's infrastructure.
- 2. Scientists warn of cataclysmic consequences if climate change is ignored.
- 3. The war brought cataclysmic changes to the region's political landscape.
- 4. A cataclysmic asteroid impact wiped out the dinosaurs millions of years ago.