debacle
The Portuguese word debacle means debacle.
debacle is used to describe an event or enterprise that ends suddenly and disastrously.
Meaning: event or enterprise that ends suddenly and disastrously (noun)
Which one should you use?
While debacle refers to a sudden and disastrous end, other words offer different nuances. Desastre is used for a significant failure or collapse, and fracasso is the word for a failure. Fiasco specifically describes a complete and embarrassing failure. In more casual contexts, bagunça describes a situation that has turned into a mess or chaos, whereas confusão refers to confusion or a disorganized event.
Did you know?
- While debacle describes a disaster today, it originally referred to the sudden breaking up of ice in a river during the spring thaw.
- The term desastre can be used as a synonym for debacle, but in Portuguese, it is often used to describe a person who is extremely clumsy or inept.
- Portuguese speakers might use confusão to describe a 'debacle' that involves a loud public argument or a physical brawl, rather than just a failure of a plan.
Examples in context
- O projeto foi um fiasco completo.The project was a complete fiasco.
Example conversation
Rodrigo and Beatriz are discussing a failed business project.
- RodrigoVocê viu o relatório do projeto, Beatriz?Did you see the project report, Beatriz?
- BeatrizSim, foi uma debacle total, Rodrigo.Yes, it was a total debacle, Rodrigo.
- RodrigoO que nós vamos fazer agora?What are we going to do now?
- BeatrizPrecisamos recomeçar tudo do zero.We need to start everything over from scratch.
