bursts of steam

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bursts of steam" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe sudden releases of steam, often in contexts related to cooking, machinery, or natural phenomena. Example: "As the kettle reached its boiling point, bursts of steam escaped from the spout, filling the air with warmth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

After a largely quiet week, earthquakes resumed over the weekend, leading to new bursts of steam from the volcano on Sunday and Monday.

The New York Times

And, exhausted from days of grueling rescue work, the stress practically coming out of their ears in bursts of steam, the workers took advantage.

The New York Times

Behind them, the Westchester Philharmonic pounded out bass chords that evoked an engine's bursts of steam, the higher winds joining in rapid passages conjuring the movement of a train's wheels.

The New York Times

Four feet long, it allows a bather on the top bench to reach into a wooden bucket and dribble water over the hot rocks above the firebox to generate bursts of steam (called loyly in Finnish) without moving more than one arm.

The New York Times

We will watch as a muscular guy holding a long fork hefts a hunk of hot beef redolent with spices, garlic and pepper from the custom-made steamer, erupting white bursts of steam.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Immediately, the contact results in a burst of steam.

The Washington Post

Add the butter and give one last burst of steam.

The New York Times

When the oversized players appeared to kick the balls, Suitor and Courter exploded out, soaring above the field in a burst of steam.

The Washington Post

Löyly, Portland, Oregon You know that burst of steam you get in a sauna when you ladle water onto the hot rocks?

Independent

There is no lack of noise from the fans, but maybe the manager's burst of steam can make this series compelling.

The New York Times - Sports

But a few minutes later at least one Palestinian sniper opened fire, destroying a jeep's radiator in a burst of steam.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing volcanic activity or similar natural phenomena, use "bursts of steam" to effectively convey the sudden release of energy.

Common error

Avoid using "bursts of steam" to describe everyday situations where a gentler term like "puffs of steam" or simply "steam" would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can sound dramatic and unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bursts of steam" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig examples show it describing physical phenomena like volcanic activity or steam-powered machinery.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bursts of steam" is a noun phrase used to describe the sudden release of vapor, often in contexts involving natural phenomena, machinery, or cooking. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and serves to convey intensity. While typically neutral in register, it is most frequently found in news and media sources. Consider using synonyms like "puffs of steam" or "jets of steam" for varied expression. As such, be mindful of overuse to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

puffs of steam

Focuses on smaller, gentler releases of vapor compared to the more forceful "bursts".

jets of steam

Emphasizes the directed and focused nature of the steam release.

outbursts of steam

Highlights the sudden and uncontrolled nature of the steam release.

eruptions of steam

Suggests a more forceful and potentially dangerous release of steam.

clouds of steam

Describes a larger, less defined volume of steam being released.

spurts of steam

Implies short, intermittent releases of steam.

gushes of steam

Conveys a large quantity of steam being released rapidly.

waves of steam

Suggests a rolling or flowing release of steam.

torrents of steam

Emphasizes the forceful and overwhelming nature of the steam release.

explosions of steam

Indicates a very rapid and forceful release, possibly with destructive force.

FAQs

How can I use "bursts of steam" in a sentence?

You can use "bursts of steam" to describe sudden releases of steam, often in contexts related to cooking, machinery, or natural phenomena. For example, "As the kettle reached its boiling point, "bursts of steam" escaped from the spout".

What are some alternatives to "bursts of steam"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "puffs of steam", "jets of steam", or "outbursts of steam".

Is "bursts of steam" a formal or informal expression?

"Bursts of steam" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the subject matter. It is suitable for news reports, scientific descriptions, and even casual conversations about cooking.

What distinguishes "bursts of steam" from "clouds of steam"?

"Bursts of steam" implies a sudden, forceful release, while "clouds of steam" suggests a larger volume and a more diffuse or widespread distribution of the steam.