What is a "debacle"?

The term "debacle" refers to a situation that results in a complete failure or collapse, often in a dramatic or sudden way. It describes events that go awry, leading to chaos or disarray. For instance, if a plan or project that was supposed to succeed ends in utter disaster, it can be labeled as a debacle. This nuance captures the seriousness and gravity of the situation, indicating that not only did things not go as hoped, but they did so in a manner that was particularly disastrous.

In contrast, the other options present scenarios that do not align with the definition of "debacle." A successful event denotes a positive outcome, which is the opposite of failure. An unexpected success implies a favorable result that was not anticipated, further distancing it from the concept of failure. Lastly, a minor setback suggests a small problem that can be overcome easily, whereas a debacle indicates a significant and overwhelming failure. Thus, the understanding of a debacle encompasses the entirety of failure, providing clarity on why it is selected as the correct answer.