a bomb explodes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bomb explodes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing events related to explosions, military actions, or in fictional narratives. Example: "In the movie, a bomb explodes, causing chaos and destruction in the city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

"We can call out the army when a bomb explodes somewhere once a month, but we cannot muster the forces to fight this terror that takes lives daily?" Sefkat has so far referred the women seeking weapons training to local shooting ranges, Mr. Bulan said.

The New York Times

Then, off camera, a bomb explodes.

The New Yorker

* 9 September, 2004: A bomb explodes close to the Australian Embassy in Jakarta.

Independent

Except when a bomb explodes in Colombo, southerners are shielded by distance and by censorship.

The Economist

Seconds later, a bomb explodes in a gray cloud of smoke.

The New York Times

Not that Cody needs to make excuses — when a bomb explodes, you expect shrapnel.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

The sound was like a bomb exploding.

The New Yorker

It's not like a bomb exploding.

The New York Times

A bomb exploded on a nearby hillside.

The New York Times

When the Prime Minister stood to speak, a bomb exploded.

The New Yorker

The sirens sounded, and a bomb exploded, quite close.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about bombings, use precise language to convey the impact and context. Consider the emotional and physical consequences of the event.

Common error

Avoid using overly dramatic or sensational language when reporting on bombings. Maintain a neutral tone and focus on factual reporting to prevent causing unnecessary alarm or offense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bomb explodes" typically functions as a statement of fact, describing an event. It adheres to standard grammatical structure and Ludwig AI validates its correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a bomb explodes" is grammatically correct and commonly used, primarily in news and media contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to describe an event factually and objectively. While the phrase is suitable for formal writing, caution should be exercised to avoid sensational language and maintain a neutral tone. Related phrases like "a bomb detonates" or "an explosion occurs" may be used depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bomb detonates

Replaces "explodes" with "detonates", emphasizing the initiation of the explosion.

a bomb goes off

Employs the phrasal verb "goes off", which is more informal but conveys the same meaning.

an explosion occurs

Uses a more general term, "explosion", and the verb "occurs" instead of specifying the bomb.

a sudden explosion

Adds the adjective "sudden" to emphasize the unexpected nature of the event.

a blast erupts

Substitutes "bomb" with "blast", and "explodes" with "erupts", suggesting a sudden and forceful release of energy.

a detonation takes place

Similar to "an explosion occurs", but more specific to the event of detonation.

a device detonates

Replaces "bomb" with the more generic term "device", suitable when the specific nature of the explosive is unknown or irrelevant.

an IED explodes

Specifies the type of bomb as an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

the bomb is triggered

Focuses on the triggering mechanism rather than the explosion itself.

the explosion is set off

Highlights the action of setting off the explosion, implying an external cause.

FAQs

What does it mean when we say that "a bomb explodes"?

Saying that "a bomb explodes" means that an explosive device has detonated, causing a sudden and violent release of energy. This often results in damage, injury, or death.

What can I say instead of "a bomb explodes"?

You can use alternatives like "a bomb detonates", "an explosion occurs", or "a blast erupts" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "a bomb explodes" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "a bomb explodes" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when reporting news or documenting events. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it is used sensitively.

Which is more accurate, "a bomb explodes" or "a bomb detonates"?

Both "a bomb explodes" and "a bomb detonates" are accurate. "Detonates" is slightly more technical and precise, referring specifically to the initiation of the explosion. "Explodes" is more general and describes the overall event.