explode in popularity

USAGE SUMMARY

'explode in popularity' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has become suddenly very popular. For example, "The new video game series has exploded in popularity since its release."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

In fact, the instant interaction between people hundreds of miles away is making social networking sites like MySpace and Facebook explode in popularity.

Harvard University

The rules of the appellation were not codified until 1968, and the wines did not explode in popularity until the 1980s.

The New York Times - Food

Bell sleeves, flute sleeves, ruffled sleeves, bishop sleeves — these silhouettes are already catching fashionistas' eyes and are likely to explode in popularity in 2017.

The Washington Post

The last few years have seen Nigerian music explode in popularity all over the world, from D'banj scoring a No 1 in the UK with Oliver Twist to Wizkid's collaborations with the likes of Drake, Skepta and French Montana.

The Guardian - Music

Though it was online articles that really helped the startup explode in popularity almost immediately.

Forbes

In contrast to laptops, netbooks and desktop computers, tablets continue to explode in popularity.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Meditation is exploding in popularity.

The New York Times

The worldwide web was exploding in popularity.

Cornell University

This initiative has exploded in popularity.

The Guardian - Opinion

It exploded in popularity after it was released in 2006.

The New York Times - Tech

Endurance events have exploded in popularity, particularly among older athletes.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explode in popularity" to describe a sudden and rapid increase in the public's interest or adoption of something. It is most effective when highlighting an unexpected surge.

Common error

Be mindful not to overuse the phrase, especially in formal writing, as it can sometimes sound hyperbolic. Consider more nuanced alternatives like "gain traction" or "become widespread" when a less dramatic effect is intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explode in popularity" functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for describing a sudden surge in public interest or adoption.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Academia

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explode in popularity" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a sudden and significant surge in public interest or adoption. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and its usage is especially prevalent in News & Media. While versatile, consider the context and potential for hyperbole, opting for more nuanced phrases like "gain traction" or "become widespread" in more formal settings. The phrase's neutral register makes it appropriate for a wide range of communications, highlighting its continued relevance and usability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enjoy a meteoric rise

Emphasizes the speed and brilliance of the increase in popularity, similar to a meteor.

skyrocket in fame

Emphasizes a rapid and significant increase in fame, more focused on recognition than general adoption.

become a sensation

Suggests a very exciting and remarkable instance of popularity, often used for cultural phenomena.

see a boom in popularity

Uses "boom" to suggest a period of great growth and prosperity in terms of popularity.

surge in demand

Focuses on a sudden increase in demand for a product or service, rather than overall popularity.

experience a wave of popularity

Presents popularity as something that comes in a rush or surge, like a wave.

take the world by storm

Implies a powerful and impactful entry into popularity, affecting a global scale.

gain widespread acceptance

Highlights the process of becoming accepted by a large number of people, rather than a sudden burst of popularity.

blossom into a trend

Indicates that something has developed gradually into a widely followed trend.

rise to prominence

Highlights a gradual increase in importance and recognition, not necessarily a sudden surge.

FAQs

How can I use "explode in popularity" in a sentence?

You can use "explode in popularity" to describe a sudden and rapid increase in something's public interest. For example, "The new social media platform is expected to "skyrocket in fame" after its recent update".

What's a less dramatic alternative to "explode in popularity"?

If you're looking for a less dramatic alternative, consider phrases like "gain traction", "become widespread", or "rise to prominence", which suggest a more gradual increase.

Is "explode in popularity" suitable for formal writing?

While "explode in popularity" is widely understood, it might be perceived as informal in certain contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "gain widespread acceptance" or "surge in demand" to maintain a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "explode in popularity" and "become a sensation"?

"Explode in popularity" suggests a rapid increase in public interest, whereas "become a sensation" implies a very exciting and remarkable instance of popularity, often associated with cultural phenomena or entertainment.