neardestruction
Neardestruction is a term used in risk analysis and complex systems theory to describe events in which a system experiences substantial damage or stress but does not undergo total failure. The state is characterized by damage or load levels that approach a critical threshold beyond which destruction would occur, yet the system remains operational or recoverable.
The term is not standardized and is applied across domains such as structural engineering, cybersecurity, ecology,
Analytically, neardestruction is examined through concepts of resilience, margins of safety, and shock absorption. Methods include
Examples include a bridge carrying loads close to its ultimate capacity during a major event but not
See also: near miss, resilience, safety factor, tipping point.