an explosive situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an explosive situation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a scenario that is highly volatile or likely to lead to conflict or danger. Example: "The negotiations had reached a breaking point, creating an explosive situation that could erupt at any moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Clearly this was an explosive situation.

The Guardian - Books

"They don't want to blow up an explosive situation".

The New York Times

This has created an explosive situation upon which Golden Dawn makes political capital.

The New Yorker

"Not giving people a peaceful way of expressing their outrage is creating an explosive situation".

The New York Times

The first serious incident will undo any agreement and recreate an explosive situation on the ground.

The New York Times

Hunger always creates an explosive situation and is never a wise way to save money.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Escalation is not the solution, it merely fans the flames of an already explosive situation.

The Guardian

A determined drive for total power by the conservative coalition has the potential to ignite an intrinsically explosive situation.

The New York Times

Topher Grace and Connie Britton have snippy fun as warring CIA drones each trying to manage an increasingly explosive situation, but Project X director Nima Nourizadeh seems too seduced by the action set pieces to keep his eyes on the characters.

The Guardian - Film

But the statements and actions of a number of Muslim clerics based in Israel, Palestinian politicians and even foreign governments have only inflamed and exacerbated an already explosive situation.

The Guardian - Opinion

And dehumanizing people, whom ostensibly you are there to help, only exacerbates an already explosive situation.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use stronger verbs and modifiers to describe an "explosive situation" when it is the focus of a sentence. For example: "The situation threatened to become explosive" (weak) vs. "Escalating tensions caused an explosive situation" (strong).

Common error

Avoid using "an explosive situation" as a sensationalized cliché. Overusing it can diminish its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic. Instead, aim for precise language that conveys the specific nature of the tension or potential danger, not every conflict is an "explosive situation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an explosive situation" functions as a noun phrase, where "explosive" modifies "situation". It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a condition or set of circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an explosive situation" is a widely used phrase that effectively describes a scenario ripe with tension and the potential for sudden escalation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly found in various contexts, most notably in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure that the surrounding text provides clear context, avoids sensationalism, and highlights the factors contributing to the volatility. By doing so, you can leverage its power to convey the urgency and potential danger inherent in the described circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a powder keg

Uses a metaphor to describe a situation ready to explode.

a boiling point

Indicates a situation approaching a critical state of escalation.

a volatile environment

Focuses on the instability and unpredictability of the surroundings.

a crisis point

Suggests a moment of intense difficulty or danger.

a tense climate

Emphasizes the strained and uneasy atmosphere.

a highly charged atmosphere

Highlights the intensity and emotional energy of the situation.

a precarious state of affairs

Highlights the uncertainty and risk of collapse or disaster.

a flashpoint

Identifies a specific location or issue where conflict is likely to erupt.

a critical juncture

Indicates a turning point with potentially dangerous outcomes.

a delicate balance

Implies that the situation could easily be disrupted.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "an explosive situation" in a sentence?

To effectively use "an explosive situation", provide context that specifies the factors contributing to the volatility. Instead of saying "The situation was explosive", try "The political climate was an explosive situation due to the unresolved tensions between the parties".

What are some alternatives to "an explosive situation"?

You can use alternatives like "a volatile environment", "a tense climate", or "a precarious state of affairs" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "an explosive situation" in formal writing?

Yes, "an explosive situation" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when describing conflicts, crises, or volatile circumstances. However, ensure that the tone remains objective and avoids sensationalism.

What makes "an explosive situation" different from "a tense situation"?

"An explosive situation" suggests a higher likelihood of sudden, disruptive change or conflict, whereas "a tense situation" implies heightened unease but not necessarily an imminent eruption. The key difference lies in the perceived immediacy and potential for sudden escalation.