Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) Practice Test

What is a disaster defined as in the context of institutions and communities?

1. An event that disrupts normal operations and affects surrounding communities

2. A minor incident that causes temporary inconvenience

3. An unplanned event that has no significant impact

4. A planned event that is expected to occur

The correct answer is: An event that disrupts normal operations and affects surrounding communities

In the context of institutions and communities, a disaster is defined as an event that disrupts normal operations and affects surrounding communities. This definition highlights two crucial aspects: disruption and impact. A disaster not only interrupts the regular functions of an institution but also extends its effects to the surrounding community, potentially leading to widespread consequences such as damage to infrastructure, loss of resources, and harm to individuals and systems. The other options do not reflect the full scope of what constitutes a disaster. Describing a disaster as a minor incident implies a lack of serious consequences, which contradicts the nature of a disaster that typically entails significant disruption. Similarly, characterizing a disaster as an unplanned event with no significant impact fails to account for the inherent severity and disruptive nature of a disaster. Finally, the notion of a planned event contradicts the unpredictable and often chaotic characteristics associated with disasters, reinforcing the idea that genuine disasters are unexpected and can lead to significant challenges for both institutions and communities.