Bust: meaning, definitions and examples

In a different context, this word can mean to break something. This usage doesn't relate to law enforcement. It's slang and casual.

• I accidentally busted my phone screen.
• He busted his knee during the game.

This word is used to refer to a sudden attack or seizure by law enforcement, military, or other authorities. It's about quick, forceful action. It can have a negative connotation when used by non-authorities.

• The police carried out a raid on the warehouse.
• They were caught in a raid by the tax authorities.

Often used to describe a quick and unexpected action by authorities, similar to 'raid' but can also imply speed and surprise. It's less formal than 'raid'.

• The SWAT team made a swoop on the suspect's hideout.
• The police swooped in and arrested him.

This term is typically used to describe a planned series of actions carried out by law enforcement or the military. It is more formal and strategic in nature.

• The FBI conducted a major operation to dismantle the cartel.
• The rescue operation was successful.

The word 'bust' can also mean a sudden financial failure or collapse, often used in a negative context to describe economic downturns.

• The company went bust after losing its biggest client
• There was a big housing market bust in 2008

A 'statue' is a type of sculpture representing a person, animal, or mythical figure, often life-sized or larger. Statues are frequently used in public spaces as monuments or for decorative purposes.

• The city erected a statue in honor of the war heroes
• There is a famous statue of the Buddha in the temple

A 'sculpture' is a three-dimensional artistic form made from materials like marble, wood, or metal. It can represent people, animals, objects, or abstract forms.

• The park features a large abstract sculpture
• She admired the intricate details of the marble sculpture

A 'figure' can refer to a representation of a human or animal form in art, often used in a more general sense than 'sculpture' or 'statue.' It can also mean a silhouette or shape in other contexts.

• The artist sketched a figure of a ballerina
• In the distance, he could see the figure of a man

Also can mean a sudden, complete failure or breakdown in general settings. Still carries a negative tone.

• Their plans for a skydive adventure went bust due to bad weather.

Used in more serious contexts, often describing something that falls apart suddenly and completely, such as a structure or an organization.

• The collapse of the bridge was a tragic event.
• The housing market collapsed during the financial crisis.

A general term for not achieving a goal. Can be used in various contexts, from personal achievements to business endeavours. Usually negative but not as severe as 'collapse' or 'crash'.

• She failed her driving test three times.
• The startup failed to secure additional funding.

Typically used to describe a sudden drop in value or a complete failure of a system, such as financial markets, computer systems, or vehicles. Has a strong negative connotation.

• The stock market crashed in 2008.
• The computer system crashed, and we lost all the data.