catastrophize

American  

[kuh-tas-truh-fahyz] / kəˈtæs trəˌfaɪz /

verb (used with or without object)

catastrophized, catastrophizing

1. to view or talk about (an event or situation) as worse than it actually is, or assume it will have the worst possible outcome; overreact.

   Stop catastrophizing and get on with your life!

   She tends to catastrophize her symptoms.

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Usage

What does catastrophize mean? To catastrophize is to think of a situation as much worse than it really is—to act as if a negative circumstance is the worst possible scenario.A catastrophe is a disaster or an utter failure or fiasco—it’s when something has gone wrong in the worst way. Catastrophize comes from psychology but is now also used in everyday speech. In British English, it’s usually spelled catastrophise.Example: I wish you wouldn’t catastrophize,” she said. “Things really aren’t that bad!

Etymology

Origin of catastrophize

First recorded in 1960–65; catastroph(e) + -ize

Example Sentences

If you’re someone who tends to catastrophize, learning that someone is not feeling the same way as you can help give you some perspective, said Siegel.

From Los Angeles Times

I think most people do, because if we get caught up in catastrophizing, that leads to a very miserable life.

From Salon

Some people may have catastrophizing, or excessive worry, in the face of pain that can make pain and recovery worse.

From Science Daily

We love to catastrophize about traffic headaches — it’s in our civic DNA, after all — but what so often happens isn’t as bad as we thought it would be.

From Los Angeles Times

After all, people who make a living from catastrophizing like catastrophes.

From Los Angeles Times