Blast: meaning, definitions and examples

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blast

 

[ blɑːst ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

explosive sound

To explode or destroy something with a sudden and powerful force.

Synonyms

burst, detonate, explode.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blast

Used to describe a strong explosion or a burst of something, both in literal and metaphorical sense. It can also refer to a loud sound or an enjoyable experience.

  • The demolition crew set off a blast to bring down the old building.
  • The speakers gave a sudden blast of music.
  • We had a blast at the party last night!
explode

A general term used to describe a sudden and violent release of energy causing something to break apart or burst. Can be used literally for physical explosions or metaphorically for sudden outbursts of emotion.

  • The science experiment caused the chemicals to explode.
  • He tried to remain calm, but he eventually exploded with anger.
  • The fireworks exploded in the night sky.
detonate

Used in a formal or technical context to describe the action of causing an explosive device to explode. Often related to military, bomb disposal, and controlled explosions.

  • The bomb squad carefully planned how to detonate the device.
  • They will detonate the obsolete ammunition at a safe location.
burst

Used to describe something suddenly breaking open or apart, often releasing contents forcefully. This term can also be used metaphorically to describe sudden emotions or actions.

  • The balloon burst when it touched the sharp object.
  • She burst into tears after hearing the news.
  • The pipe burst due to the high pressure.

Examples of usage

  • The bomb blast destroyed the entire building.
  • The dynamite blast could be heard from miles away.
Context #2 | Noun

explosive sound

A sudden and powerful explosion or a strong gust of air or wind.

Synonyms

bang, burst, explosion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blast

Use 'blast' when referring to a powerful explosion, or metaphorically to describe a loud sound or a strong impact. It can be used in both negative and positive contexts depending on the situation.

  • There was a huge blast at the construction site.
  • The music at the concert was an absolute blast.
explosion

This term is used to describe a violent and destructive breaking apart of an object, often accompanied by a loud noise. It is often used in more severe, dangerous, or dramatic contexts.

  • The gas leak caused a massive explosion.
  • The fireworks show ended with a spectacular explosion of colors.
bang

Best used to describe a sudden loud noise, often from something hitting another object violently. It has a less severe connotation than 'blast' and is often used for everyday sounds.

  • I heard a loud bang coming from the kitchen.
  • She banged the door shut.
burst

Refers to something breaking open or apart suddenly and violently, often from pressure or internal energy. It can be used for literal or figurative explosions.

  • The balloon burst with a loud pop.
  • He suddenly burst into tears.

Examples of usage

  • We heard a loud blast coming from the fireworks display.
  • The blast of wind knocked over the trees.

Translations

Translations of the word "blast" in other languages:

🇵🇹 explosão

🇮🇳 विस्फोट

🇩🇪 Explosion

🇮🇩 ledakan

🇺🇦 вибух

🇵🇱 eksplozja

🇯🇵 爆発 (ばくはつ)

🇫🇷 explosion

🇪🇸 explosión

🇹🇷 patlama

🇰🇷 폭발 (pokbal)

🇸🇦 انفجار

🇨🇿 výbuch

🇸🇰 výbuch

🇨🇳 爆炸 (bàozhà)

🇸🇮 eksplozija

🇮🇸 sprenging

🇰🇿 жарылыс

🇬🇪 აფეთქება

🇦🇿 partlayış

🇲🇽 explosión

Etymology

The word 'blast' originated from the Old English word 'blǣst', meaning a blowing or a puff of air. Over time, the meaning of 'blast' expanded to include explosive sounds and powerful forces. The word has been used in various contexts, from describing natural phenomena like wind blasts to destructive explosions. Today, 'blast' continues to be a versatile word used to convey sudden and forceful actions or events.

See also: blasted, blasting, blasts.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,636 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.