Are you writing an action novel in which a plane crashes, killing many passengers on board? Keep reading to learn how to describe a plane crash in a story with the following 10 words.
1. Catastrophic
Definition
Disastrous, calamitous; involving widespread damage or suffering.
Examples
“The catastrophic plane crash left no survivors.”
“The storm caused catastrophic damage to the aircraft, leading to a deadly crash.”
How it Adds Description
Describing a plane crash as “catastrophic” stresses the severity and magnitude of the event. This can relay a somber and intense tone for the story, communicating the gravity of the situation to the reader. It implies that the crash was abrupt and unexpected, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and search for survivors.
2. Devastating
Definition
Destructive, ruinous; causing great harm or damage.
Examples
“The devastating impact of the crash could be felt throughout the community.”
“The news of the devastating plane crash sent shockwaves through the airline industry.”
How it Adds Description
The word “devastating” imparts the gravity of the personal impact and aftermath of the event. It hints that the crash was not only destructive in a physical sense but also had significant mental consequences for those involved. It can help set the scene to explore the sense of loss felt by family members, the community, and rescue workers involved in recovery efforts.
3. Tragic
Definition
Heartbreaking, sorrowful; characterized by extreme sadness or loss.
Examples
“The tragic plane crash claimed the lives of several prominent community members.”
“The families of the victims were left to grieve in the aftermath of the tragic accident.”
How it Adds Description
Using the word “tragic” adds a significant amount of emotional weight to a plane crash in a story. It indicates that the accident was not just an unfortunate incident, but a calamitous event with far-reaching consequences. It suggests that the crash resulted in the loss of human life, and potentially other forms of destruction, such as property damage and environmental impact.
4. Horrific
Definition
Shocking, appalling; causing intense fear, disgust, or shock.
Examples
“Eyewitnesses described the horrific scene of the plane crash as nightmarish.”
“The images of the horrific wreckage left a lasting impression on the first responders who arrived at the scene.”
How it Adds Description
Using the word “horrific” to describe a plane crash puts emphasis on the gruesome and unsettling nature of the event. It implies that the crash was not only destructive and tragic, but also deeply disturbing. This word can be used to set the scene for exploring the psychological impact that it may have on first responders and others involved in rescue, recovery, and cleanup efforts.
5. Terrifying
Definition
Frightening, alarming; triggering fear or anxiety.
Examples
“The passengers experienced a terrifying ordeal during the plane crash.”
“The pilot’s quick thinking in the face of a terrifying situation saved many lives.”
How it Adds Description
The word “terrifying” emphasizes the fear and panic that often accompanies an event such as a plane crash. It relays the trauma and fear experienced by those involved, communicating a sense of chaos and confusion. This word shifts the focus from those dealing with a crash to those actually involved in or witnessing the events before, during, or after the crash.
6. Harrowing
Definition
Distressing, traumatic; frightening, or shocking.
Examples
“The survivors of the harrowing plane crash were left with lasting psychological scars.”
“The pilot’s heroism during the harrowing emergency landing saved dozens of lives.”
How it Adds Description
The word “harrowing” indicates that the experience of those involved or affected by a plane crash was extremely distressing, traumatic, or intense. It can be used to stir up a sense of fear, danger, and despair on the part of everyone involved, whether on the plane or dealing with the aftermath of the disaster on the ground.
7. Disastrous
Definition
Tragic, calamitous; causing considerable damage or harm.
Examples
“The disastrous plane crash led to the grounding of the entire fleet of aircraft.”
“The families of the victims filed a lawsuit against the airline following the disastrous crash.”
How it Adds Description
Describing a plane crash as “disastrous” conveys the scale and scope of the event. The word indicates that the crash had significant consequences, both in terms of the loss of life and the wider impact on the aviation industry. It can emphasize the need for accountability and a formal probe into the cause of the crash, as well as the effects on those involved.
8. Fatal
Definition
Deadly, lethal; ending in death.
Examples
“The fatal plane crash claimed the lives of all on board.”
“The pilot’s errors were found to be the cause of the fatal crash.”
How it Adds Description
Using the word “fatal” to describe a plane crash highlights the tragic loss of life that often accompanies such events. It tells the reader that the crash was not only disastrous but also resulted in significant loss and grief. It can move the story from the events of the crash to the emotions of the loved ones of those who perished.
9. Chaotic
Definition
Disordered, confusing; characterized by confusion and disorder.
Examples
“The site of the plane crash was chaotic, with emergency responders rushing to save survivors.”
“The passengers panicked in the chaotic moments before the crash.”
How it Adds Description
The word “chaotic” underlines the confusion and disorder taking place during or after a plane crash. It portrays an event that was a confusing and overwhelming experience, adding to the sense of panic and fear. It might be used to show the drama of the crash and add some mystery to how events unfolded, which will have to be unraveled to determine what really happened.
10. Jarring
Definition
Shocking, unsettling; affecting a sudden and unpleasant surprise.
Examples
“The jarring impact of the plane crash left the passengers disoriented and injured.”
“The flight attendants were trained to keep calm and provide reassurance during jarring turbulence, but this was much more than that.”
How it Adds Description
The word “jarring” implies a swift, rough impact or collision, when describing a plane crash. It can convey the sense of shock and trauma of the event and suggests the physical and emotional disorientation that the characters may experience. It can be used to create a vivid and realistic image in the reader’s mind, helping to immerse them in the story and engage their emotions.