blow up

USAGE SUMMARY

"blow up" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use "blow up" to mean both to explode something or to inflate something. For example: The enemy tried to blow up the bridge, but thankfully the explosives failed. We decided to blow up a few balloons to decorate the room.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

You gonna blow up".

The New Yorker

He'd blow up.

The New York Times - Sports

They blow up the schools.

The New York Times

"Something could just blow up.

The New Yorker

"Blow up lungs.

The New Yorker

They may blow up his equipment.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

A blow-up, I presume?

The New York Times

Melvis plus blow-up doll?

The New York Times

Blow-up neck pillow.

The New York Times

That's a "blow-up".

Forbes

Theorem 2.2 (Blow-up).

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "blow up" in the context of inflating, ensure clarity by specifying what is being inflated (e.g., "blow up balloons").

Common error

Avoid using "blow up" in formal writing when you mean to express anger or frustration. Opt for more professional alternatives like "become irate" or "express displeasure."

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "blow up" primarily functions as a verb expressing action. Ludwig AI confirms this with multiple examples across various contexts demonstrating actions like causing an explosion or inflating an object.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "blow up" is a versatile phrasal verb with multiple meanings, ranging from causing an explosion to inflating an object, or even describing an emotional outburst. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, with particular prevalence in News & Media and Wiki sources. While generally neutral in register, careful attention to context is crucial for precise communication. For formal writing, consider more specific synonyms like "detonate" or "inflate" to enhance clarity and professionalism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explode

Refers specifically to the act of detonating or bursting violently, often with destructive force.

inflate

Focuses on filling something with air or gas to expand its size or volume.

detonate

Specifically indicates the action of causing an explosive to explode.

burst

Implies a sudden breaking open or expansion due to internal pressure.

erupt

Suggests a sudden and forceful release, similar to a volcano.

lose one's temper

Indicates a sudden outburst of anger or frustration.

fly off the handle

Describes an uncontrolled display of anger or emotion.

reach a breaking point

Suggests reaching a limit where one can no longer cope with stress or pressure.

expand rapidly

Describes a quick and substantial increase in size or scope.

become enraged

Highlights a state of intense anger or fury.

FAQs

How can I use "blow up" in a sentence?

"Blow up" can be used to describe an explosion, as in "The bomb was set to blow up at midnight", or to mean to inflate, as in "Could you blow up these balloons for the party?"

What is the difference between "explode" and "blow up"?

While both words refer to a sudden and violent release of energy, "blow up" can also mean to inflate something, whereas "explode" only refers to a destructive detonation.

Is it appropriate to use "blow up" in formal writing?

It depends on the context. While "blow up" is commonly used, in formal writing, it's often better to choose more precise synonyms like "detonate" (for explosions) or "inflate" (for filling with air).

What are some alternative ways to say "blow up" when referring to someone getting angry?

Instead of saying someone "blew up", you could say they "lost their temper", "became enraged", or "flew off the handle".