explode

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "explode" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the word "explode" to mean "to burst out with sudden force, typically making a loud noise, as a result of an intense emotional state, internal pressure, or chemical reaction". For example, "The audience exploded in cheers when the band came onto the stage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"My right knee was like a time bomb waiting to explode," he said, "and eventually it did".

The Guardian - Sport

Its internal divisions could explode; and the demographics are against it: most supporters in the east are pensioners (people like the 18-year old Linke deputy in the Saxony parliament are mere window-dressing), while in the west the party is dominated by older communists and sectarian splinter groups, whose theoretical positions the easterners often find baffling.

The Guardian - Opinion

Nicolas Sarkozy billed it as the moment of truth, when his challenger François Hollande would explode under the president's superior debating skills.

The Guardian - Opinion

Without combat skills, my party bleeds out on the floor of the Ag Center, flailing to hit anything while pod zombies explode all around them.

The Guardian - Tech

Officers quickly swept people westward with a brief bombardment of smoke, gas and pepper balls, which explode with an irritant.

The Guardian

Will Conservatives introduce legislation allowing the sun to explode?

The Guardian

Unfortunately Kathy Bates hasn't had as much to do this year as last (her accent is "Baltimorese", apparently) but is reliably solid and looks likely to explode in the coming episodes.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

There is, she says, an association for her with the Jetztzeit, the notion of the "now time", or "here and now" laid out by Walter Benjamin – the moment in which an encounter with an image can explode the "continuum of history".

The Guardian - Books

Imusa, dismayed by his volte-face, continued to argue the deal would eventually explode in United's face.

The Guardian - Sport

The Magician's Nephew by CS Lewis I asked my kids and their friends what it is, and isn't, okay to fictionally explode.

The Guardian

She also said she had an implant in her eye that would explode if she spoke of the satanists, and that a friend she'd confided in was murdered in front of her.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explode" metaphorically (e.g., "the deal exploded"), ensure the context clearly implies a sudden and destructive failure or termination to avoid misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "explode" to describe gradual increases or trends. "Surge", "increase", or "grow rapidly" are more appropriate for situations where something is expanding over time rather than undergoing a sudden, forceful event.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "explode" is as an intransitive verb, indicating a sudden and forceful bursting or release of energy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and can be used in a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

29%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "explode" is a verb that describes a sudden and forceful bursting or release of energy, whether literal or metaphorical. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and finds frequent usage across various contexts, especially in "news & media", "science", and "formal & business" settings. While versatile, it's crucial to use "explode" accurately, avoiding its application to gradual increases and ensuring the context aligns with its implications of suddenness and force. Consider alternatives like "blow up" or "erupt" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blow up

Implies a forceful bursting or destruction, similar to "explode" but often with a more physical connotation.

detonate

Specifically refers to causing an explosion, typically with explosives.

burst

Suggests a sudden release of energy or contents, similar to a contained "explode".

erupt

Conveys a sudden and forceful outbreak, like a volcano.

go off

Commonly used to describe the activation of a bomb or similar device.

break out

Indicates a sudden start or occurrence of something, like a fight or epidemic.

flare up

Suggests a sudden increase in intensity or activity, often referring to conflict or disease.

violently erupt

Emphasizes the forceful and uncontrolled nature of the eruption.

suddenly ignite

Focuses on the rapid onset of burning or combustion.

vehemently blow up

Combines the idea of strong emotion with a sudden outburst.

FAQs

How can I use "explode" in a sentence?

The word "explode" can be used to describe a sudden and forceful bursting or release of energy. For example, "The bomb exploded with a deafening roar" or "The market exploded with new opportunities".

What are some synonyms for "explode"?

Alternatives to "explode" include "blow up", "detonate", "burst", or "erupt", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "explode" metaphorically?

Yes, "explode" can be used metaphorically to describe a sudden and dramatic increase or outburst. For example, "Her career exploded after the release of her new album".

What is the difference between "explode" and "implode"?

"Explode" refers to bursting outward with force, while "implode" refers to collapsing inward. They are opposite actions. For example, a building might "explode" due to a bomb, but it might "implode" during a controlled demolition.