rocket

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "rocket" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it as a verb (meaning "to increase quickly"), or as a noun (meaning "a vehicle that propels itself through a reaction force created by the rapid expulsion of exhaust gas from a rocket engine.") Example sentence: The market rocketed after news of the successful new product launch.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The official, who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the issue, said photographs from North Korea showing a rocket launched from the sea appeared to be authentic.

The Guardian

It is believed to have launched a long-range rocket and put an object into orbit in December 2012, defying scepticism and international warnings not to pursue such a programme, which could be used to develop intercontinental missiles.

The Guardian

Opening the bags of infant leaves of rocket and oak-leaf lettuce, basil and nasturtium, hot mustard and cool butterhead is a daily ritual that is as much a part of my life as a morning espresso.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But a video shot at the checkpoint shows what are likely Grad rockets striking near the road more than a dozen times, then pans to the damaged bus stopped next to a black crater in the snow, suggesting a separatist rocket attack was responsible for the carnage.

The Guardian

A preliminary report from the scene by Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe found that the 12 dead and 17 wounded passengers had been hit by shrapnel from a nearby rocket impact.

The Guardian

Cooked white beans, meanwhile, are a gem to have ready in the fridge: puree and use to top bruschetta, or toss into rocket salads, or heat up with masses of olive oil, lemon juice and garlic to serve with bangers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

One rocket was reported to have hit Sderot.

The Guardian

Sailing at a basic level is not easy but neither is it rocket science.

The Guardian - Travel

The stock took off more like a rocket than a bird.

The Guardian

The "AVA" in "Savages" has been deliberately set to look like a space rocket.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Islamists' assault on the Borno state capital saw rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) fired into homes, said witnesses and security sources.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rocket" to describe an increase, ensure the context clearly indicates what is increasing and the speed of the increase. For example, "The company's profits rocketed after the new product launch."

Common error

Avoid limiting "rocket" solely to its noun form. It functions effectively as a verb to describe rapid increases or advancements. Example: "His career rocketed after the successful project", not just "He used a rocket."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "rocket" is a noun, referring to a self-propelled vehicle or projectile. It can also function as a verb, meaning to increase rapidly. Ludwig AI examples show both usages in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

15%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "rocket" is a versatile term functioning primarily as a noun for a self-propelled projectile and secondarily as a verb denoting rapid increase. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts. With a neutral register and high frequency in news and media, "rocket" effectively conveys concepts of propulsion and acceleration. When describing rapid increases, alternatives like "skyrocket" or "surge" can offer nuanced variations. Remember to use "rocket" judiciously, ensuring clarity and appropriateness within the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rocket engine

Specifically refers to the engine that powers a rocket.

missile

Refers specifically to a guided or unguided projectile.

projectile

A general term for an object propelled forward.

ballistic missile

It is a missile that follows a ballistic trajectory.

skyrocket

Implies a rapid increase or ascent, similar to a rocket's trajectory.

blast off

Describes the initial launch phase of a rocket.

launch vehicle

A technical term for a vehicle used to launch spacecraft.

soar

Suggests a graceful and powerful upward movement.

ascend rapidly

Focuses on the speed and direction of movement.

shoot up

An informal way to describe a quick increase or rise.

FAQs

How can "rocket" be used as a verb?

"Rocket" can be used as a verb to describe something that increases or moves very quickly. For example, "Stock prices "rocketed" after the announcement".

What are some synonyms for "rocket" when referring to a rapid increase?

When "rocket" is used to describe a rapid increase, alternatives include "skyrocket", "surge", or "escalate".

Is it correct to use "rocket" in both formal and informal contexts?

While "rocket" is generally acceptable in most contexts, using more precise or formal language may be preferable in academic or professional settings. Consider alternatives like "increase sharply" or "rise exponentially".

What is the difference between a "rocket" and a "missile"?

A "rocket" is a vehicle or projectile propelled by a rocket engine. A "missile" is a guided or unguided projectile that may or may not be powered by a rocket engine.