[SampleMan]

I despise the misuse of the word “tragedy”, which is everywhere now.

Attacks cannot be tragedies. A tragedy is an accident or natural event that has a horrible outcome.

The bombing in Boston was an attack, a horrible event. It is properly described as:

Atrocity
Barbarism
Murder
Evil
Carnage
Bloodbath
Butchery
Massacre
Slaughter

It is not a disaster, a tragedy, an unfortunate event, nor a calamity.

I wish we could could a few journalists that were fluent in English.

[Biggirl]

I would still include “tragedy” as well, for those who were affected directly by the bombing attack which were beyond their control.

For your correction, “tragedy” would also belong to all of the above as well.

[Biggirl]

This horrible attack came unexpected, so I would include it in the list of words, the word “tragedy”.

[LittleBillyInfidel]

I agree and have always agreed with this. To use any other description, to me, is detached from the hard reality. The affect or consequences can be “tragic” or “calamitous” or “devastating” - but the event itself is quite different.

(The second most misused word used by reporters during any story of high emotion is “literally”.)