B2adjectiveenvironmentnature
US/ˌkæt.əˈstrɑː.fɪk/
UK/ˌkæt.əˈstrɒf.ɪk/
causing very great damage, suffering or loss
In context
The 2024 typhoon caused catastrophic flooding across northern Vietnam.
Scientists warn that warming above two degrees could have catastrophic effects.
A single software error led to a catastrophic failure of the rocket.
Words that go with catastrophic
adjective + noun
- catastrophic effectsThe oil spill had catastrophic effects on sea life.
- catastrophic failureEngineers are trained to prevent catastrophic failure in bridges.
- catastrophic consequencesIgnoring the warnings could have catastrophic consequences.
- catastrophic floodingCatastrophic flooding forced thousands to leave their homes.
adverb + adjective
- potentially catastrophicExperts called the situation potentially catastrophic.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The storm was very catastrophe.Correct: The storm was catastrophic.