burgeon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "burgeon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is growing or increasing rapidly, often in a positive context. Example: "The city's tech industry continues to burgeon, attracting talent from all over the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

But as Web pages burgeon with ever more complex designs and fancy features to show information, writers of HTML are starting to feel as if they are trying to do calculus with an abacus.

The Economist

Oilfield-service companies started to burgeon in the 1980s when big companies thought it wise to outsource drilling and other aspects of production.

The Economist

Expect the black market to burgeon again.

The Economist

In many recent carpets, based to a degree upon French carpet patterns, the border design is allowed to burgeon out into the field or exists only as a rococo frame for the carpet.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The last American combat troops departed in December, 2011, leaving behind an array of unresolved problems that, after a period of relative calm, have begun to burgeon again.

The New Yorker

Flannery relates horrifying tales of the staggering amount of gelatinous, infrastructure-clogging tonnage currently in the ocean because over-fishing and other ecological changes have allowed jellyfish populations to burgeon out of control.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Although it matters more that readers like us, and that our burgeoning circulation continues to...burgeon, it's nice to be recognised by peers (especially those who want to kill us off).

Independent

The capital's burgeoning population, upon their decease, were filling up its small churchyards, burial grounds and vaults.

The Guardian

Ten years ago, Starbucks stores were opening on every corner, followed by the burgeoning industry of artisan coffee roasters.

The Guardian

Burgeoning stars like RaeLynn, Cassadee Pope and Danielle Bradbery all got their start on The Voice under Shelton's mentoring, and The Voice has learned how to generate the same heartland appeal that Idol once understood in how it presents its contestants to the public.

The Guardian - Music

"We will create a judicial system that is fair and this will prove our commitment to the rule of law," Jehani said of his country's burgeoning post-revolutionary administration.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "burgeon" when you want to convey a sense of vigorous or rapid growth, especially in contexts related to plants, businesses, or abstract concepts like ideas and movements. Ensure that the subject of the verb is something that can naturally grow or expand.

Common error

Avoid using "burgeon" in contexts where slow, deliberate growth is intended. The word carries a strong implication of rapid and often exuberant expansion; use other words for more gradual increases.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "burgeon" is as an intransitive verb, describing the action of growing or expanding rapidly. Ludwig AI provides examples where it illustrates the development of cities, oilfield-service companies, and black markets.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "burgeon" is a versatile verb used to describe rapid growth or expansion, as highlighted by Ludwig AI's analysis. Its grammatical function centers around describing this action, and its communicative purpose is to emphasize the dynamic nature of the growth. Predominantly used in news and media contexts, as well as encyclopedias and formal documents, "burgeon" maintains a neutral to slightly formal register. Remember to use "burgeon" when you want to convey a sense of vigorous or rapid growth, particularly in contexts related to plants, businesses, or abstract concepts. Be mindful of the connotation of rapid and exuberant expansion; the best alternatives are "flourish", "thrive", and "expand", depending on the intended meaning. The examples retrieved by Ludwig showcase its use in various domains, confirming its active presence in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flourish

Refers to thriving or growing vigorously, often implying success and prosperity.

thrive

Similar to flourish, but often emphasizes continued growth and vitality despite challenges.

expand

Indicates an increase in size, volume, or scope.

grow

A general term for increasing in size or quantity.

develop

Suggests a gradual unfolding or evolving process.

prosper

Emphasizes financial success and well-being.

mushroom

Implies rapid growth, often unexpectedly.

escalate

Focuses on a rapid increase in intensity or extent.

increase

A basic term for becoming larger or more numerous.

snowball

Implies rapid accumulation and magnification.

FAQs

How can I use "burgeon" in a sentence?

"Burgeon" is typically used to describe something that is growing or developing rapidly. For example, "The city's art scene began to burgeon after the new gallery opened."

What words can I use instead of "burgeon"?

You can use alternatives like "flourish", "thrive", or "expand" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "burgeoning economy"?

Yes, "burgeoning economy" is a common and correct usage, indicating an economy that is growing rapidly and successfully.

What is the difference between "burgeon" and "bloom"?

"Burgeon" generally refers to a rapid increase or expansion, while "bloom" specifically relates to the flowering of a plant or a state of flourishing. You can use "bloom" in a more figurative way meaning to look healthy and attractive.