explode onto the scene

USAGE SUMMARY

"explode onto the scene" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe an event or instance in which someone or something appears suddenly and becomes very popular or successful. For example, "When Nirvana released their album Nevermind in 1991, they exploded onto the scene and forever changed the landscape of alternative rock music."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

If Dobson figures it out, he can explode onto the scene in the second half of the year and be the deep threat the Patriots have craved since the departure of Randy Moss.

The New York Times - Sports

Aberdeen manager Craig Brown told the club website: "The lad is ready to explode onto the scene.

BBC

Unexpected convergent consequences… this is what happens when eight different exponential technologies all explode onto the scene at once.

Huffington Post

Summer movies tend to explode onto the scene in their opening weekends and then slowly peter off, giving way to the next weekend's blockbuster sequel or brand name.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This was particularly true in the 1910s and 1920s, when modernism was exploding onto the scene.

The Guardian - Books

Then there's catcher Evan Gattis, who has exploded onto the scene in Atlanta while filling in for McCann.

The Guardian - Sport

Today it has opened up, the conglomerates have slimmed and a host of new companies, particularly in mobile technology, have exploded onto the scene.

The Economist

Botham, though, was faster and more spectacular, exploding onto the scene, taking his 200th wicket in just his 41st Test, and contributing brilliantly with the bat.

Independent

When grunge exploded onto the scene 20 years ago, it brought a renewed appreciation of two all-American classics: rock 'n' roll and the plaid flannel shirt.

The New York Times

Obesity "is presented as a crisis and it's presented as this horrible problem which has exploded onto the scene," one expert said.

The New Yorker

The expected return of Bradley Wright-Phillips, who truly exploded onto the scene when these two teams met last month, adds an extra attacking dimension.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explode onto the scene" to describe a sudden and impactful entrance into a particular field or area of interest. It's best suited for scenarios where the emergence is both quick and attention-grabbing.

Common error

While "explode onto the scene" is vivid, overusing it can diminish its impact. Consider alternatives like "burst onto the scene" or "rose to prominence" for variety and nuance in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explode onto the scene" functions as a figurative expression, typically acting as a verb phrase within a sentence. Ludwig examples illustrate its role in describing the sudden emergence and impactful arrival of individuals, groups, or trends.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explode onto the scene" is a phrase used to describe a sudden and impactful arrival or rise to prominence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While primarily found in news and media contexts, its usage is relatively rare. Consider related phrases like "burst onto the scene" or "take the world by storm" for variety. Overusing this phrase should be avoided to maximize its impact when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Burst onto the scene

Replaces "explode" with "burst", suggesting a slightly less forceful but still sudden appearance.

Erupt onto the scene

Substitutes "explode" with "erupt", implying a more forceful and potentially disruptive entrance.

Arrive with a bang

Emphasizes the exciting and impactful nature of the arrival.

Take the world by storm

Shifts the focus from the 'scene' to 'the world', emphasizing broader impact and widespread success.

Rise to prominence quickly

Uses a more formal tone, highlighting the rapid ascent to a position of importance or fame.

Catapult to fame

Suggests being rapidly propelled to a state of widespread recognition.

Make a splash

Implies an initial impact and attention-grabbing entrance, often with a sense of excitement.

Become an overnight sensation

Focuses specifically on achieving fame or recognition very rapidly.

Achieve instant success

Highlights the immediate attainment of success, without necessarily emphasizing a sudden entrance.

Gain rapid recognition

Similar to achieving instant success, but emphasizing acknowledgement and awareness by others.

FAQs

What does "explode onto the scene" mean?

The phrase "explode onto the scene" means to suddenly become very popular, successful, or noticeable.

How can I use "explode onto the scene" in a sentence?

You can say, "The band "burst onto the scene" with their debut album", or "Social media "took the world by storm" during the early 2000s".

What are some alternatives to "explode onto the scene"?

Alternatives include "burst onto the scene", "erupt onto the scene", or "take the world by storm", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "explode onto the scene" or "burst onto the scene"?

Both "explode onto the scene" and "burst onto the scene" are acceptable. "Explode" suggests a more forceful and dramatic entry, while "burst" implies a sudden but perhaps less intense arrival.