"Calamidad" is a feminine noun in Spanish.
/kala.miˈðað/
The word "calamidad" refers to a situation involving great distress, disaster, or misfortune. It is often used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in discussions concerning law, social issues, and disaster reports. The frequency of use is moderate, as it is more commonly found in formal or literary texts compared to everyday conversation.
The flood was a calamity that affected thousands of people.
Es crucial prepararse para una calamidad natural en nuestra región.
Although "calamidad" itself may not appear frequently in set idiomatic expressions, it is relevant in phrases that reflect disaster or misfortune. Here are some idiomatic expressions where "calamidad" can be observed in context:
The drought was officially declared a public calamity.
Salió de una calamidad - indicates someone has escaped or recovered from a disaster.
After the accident, he escaped a calamity with great effort.
Considerar una calamidad - to consider something a disaster.
The word "calamidad" originates from the Latin word calamitas, which means "damage" or "loss." This Latin term can also be traced back to the root calare, meaning "to call," potentially in the context of calling for help in times of distress.
Through "calamidad," we understand not only the gravity of misfortune but also the implications it has in various contexts, including social and legal discussions regarding disaster preparedness and recovery.