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cataclysm - A large-scale and violent event in the natural world

Scientists have predicted that a massive cataclysm, like a tsunami with 400-foot waves, could happen in the future.

noun

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slum - A very poor and crowded area, especially of a city

Since the schools and living conditions in a slum are usually very bad, it's hard to escape it to become successful.

adjective

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pathetic - Arousing pity, especially through vulnerability or sadness

The condition of the homeless person sleeping by the river was so pathetic that Bill had to give him a dollar.

noun

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travesty - A false, absurd, or distorted representation of something

In our court system, a travesty of justice typically occurs when the little guy goes against powerful interests and loses.

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stigma - A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person

In "The Scarlet Letter," Hester Prynne must deal with the stigma of having an out-of-wedlock child in a Puritan setting.

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scourge - A person or thing that causes great trouble or suffering

For at least half the country, Donald Trump is a scourge that can't be avoided.

noun

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rubbish - Waste material; refuse or litter

The sidewalk was piled with rubbish that overflowed from the trash cans.

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harsh - Cruel or severe

In Catholic schools, nuns carry rulers to deliver harsh punishment to disobedient children.

adjective

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dreadful - Very bad or unpleasant

Jimmy's mother shouted, 'Shut off that dreadful music or I think it will drive me crazy.'

adjective

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vile - Extremely unpleasant

Mr. Burns was a vile man who would harm anybody if it meant he could profit from it.

adjective

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diabolical - Extremely evil or cruel; wicked.

The criminal mastermind came up with a diabolical scheme to rob the large jewelry store.

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adversity - A difficult situation or time in one's life

Winston Churhill told the British people during WWII that with a stiff upper lip, they could get through the period of adversity together.