This is the 4021st most frequent French word.
catastrophe
A disaster or a terrible event causing great damage or suffering.
It is used to describe a disastrous event causing significant harm.
Cette tempête a été une véritable catastrophe pour les habitants.
This storm was a true catastrophe for the residents.
It conveys exaggeration to describe an undesirable or problematic situation.
Il est toujours en retard—c'est une catastrophe quand il faut être ponctuel.
He is always late—it's a catastrophe when punctuality is required.
It signifies a hypothetical situation that would have widespread negative effects.