explosion

word

/ɪksˈpɫoʊʒən/
ik-SPLOH-zhuhn
/ɛksplˈəʊʒən/
ik-SPLOH-zhuhn

Definition

An explosion is a sudden, violent burst that makes a loud noise and often causes damage. It can be a physical event, like a bomb or gas explosion, or a very rapid increase in something.

Usage & Nuances

Most often used for literal blasts: 'a gas explosion', 'an explosion at the factory'. It is also common in figurative phrases like 'a population explosion' or 'an explosion of color'. For a person's emotions, 'outburst' is often more natural than 'explosion'.

Example Sentences

The explosion broke the windows of the building.

basic

Police are investigating the cause of the explosion.

basic

There was a sudden explosion in the kitchen.

basic

After the explosion, the whole street was covered in smoke and dust.

natural

The internet reacted with an explosion of memes within minutes.

natural

A small mistake can lead to a huge explosion of anger in that office.

natural