Basic Details
Word: Catastrophe
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A very sudden and terrible event that causes a lot of damage or suffering.
Synonyms: Disaster, calamity, tragedy, misfortune
Antonyms: Blessing, success, fortune, wonder
Idioms and Phrases
- Waiting for the other shoe to drop: This expression means expecting something bad to happen after a current problem. Example: "After the earthquake, many people were waiting for the other shoe to drop, fearing aftershocks."
- Making a mountain out of a molehill: This phrase refers to turning a minor issue into a major problem. Example: "He spilled a drink, but his friends were making a mountain out of a molehill by acting like it was a catastrophe."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The hurricane caused a catastrophe, leaving many families without homes.
Example 2: The environmental catastrophe brought attention to the importance of protecting our planet.
Example 3: When the power went out during the school play, it felt like a catastrophe for the students performing.
Fun Fact
The word "catastrophe" comes from the Greek word "katastroph," which means "overturning." It was originally used to describe the turning point in a drama, particularly in tragedies.
Famous Quote
"In every disaster, there is an opportunity for growth." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "catastrophe" mean?
a) A small problem
b) A very sudden and terrible event
c) A funny occurrence
d) A pleasant surprise
Answer: b) A very sudden and terrible event
2. Which of these is a synonym of "catastrophe"?
a) Victory
b) Calamity
c) Celebration
d) Peace
Answer: b) Calamity
3. Which of these is an antonym of "catastrophe"?
a) Disaster
b) Blessing
c) Tragedy
d) Misfortune
Answer: b) Blessing
4. Which sentence uses "catastrophe" correctly?
a) The catastrophe made everyone laugh and celebrate.
b) He spilled water, and everyone thought it was a catastrophe.
c) The natural disaster was a catastrophe that affected thousands.
d) The lottery win was a catastrophe for him.
Answer: c) The natural disaster was a catastrophe that affected thousands.
5. Which idiom means expecting bad news after a problem?
a) Making a mountain out of a molehill
b) Waiting for the other shoe to drop
c) Barking up the wrong tree
d) A piece of cake
Answer: b) Waiting for the other shoe to drop
