Disastro vs. catastrofe
The Italian words 'disastro' and 'catastrofe' both refer to severe negative events, but they differ in scale and impact.
Disastro
'Disastro' typically refers to a serious accident or misfortune, often on a smaller scale or affecting a more limited area or group of people.
Il terremoto è stato un disastro per la città.
(The earthquake was a disaster for the city.)
La cena di ieri sera è stata un disastro.
(Last night's dinner was a disaster.)
L'incendio nella fabbrica è stato un disastro per l'economia locale.
(The factory fire was a disaster for the local economy.)
Catastrofe
'Catastrofe' indicates a more severe and widespread event, often with far-reaching consequences that can affect entire regions or populations.
Il cambiamento climatico potrebbe portare a una catastrofe globale.
(Climate change could lead to a global catastrophe.)
L'eruzione del vulcano è stata una catastrofe per l'intera isola.
(The volcanic eruption was a catastrophe for the entire island.)
La pandemia è stata una catastrofe sanitaria ed economica.
(The pandemic was a health and economic catastrophe.)
Summary
While 'disastro' is used for serious but often more localized events, 'catastrofe' implies a more extensive and devastating occurrence. 'Disastro' might describe a failed project or a local accident, whereas 'catastrofe' is reserved for major events with widespread impact like natural disasters or global crises.