Detonations: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a formal or technical context, often related to controlled explosions such as in demolition or military operations.

• The demolitions team prepared the building for controlled detonations.
• There were several detonations heard in the distance during the military exercise.

Commonly used to describe a sudden and violent release of energy, often causing damage. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The gas leak led to a massive explosion.
• There was an explosion of laughter in the room.

Commonly used in everyday language to describe a powerful explosion. It can also be used in a figurative sense to describe something sudden or loud.

• The blast from the fireworks could be heard for miles.
• He felt a blast of cold air as he opened the door.

Used to describe a sudden breaking apart or popping; often related to something small-scale or non-destructive. It can also be used figuratively to describe sudden emotions or events.

• There was a loud burst as the balloon popped.
• She felt a burst of joy when she received the news.

Used when referring to multiple instances of explosive events, often in a technical or military context.

• The area was rocked by several detonations last night
• The team examined the patterns of the detonations to understand how the attack was carried out

A general term for a violent burst that can be used in both technical and everyday contexts; does not necessarily imply a man-made device.

• The gas leak led to a huge explosion in the building
• They described the sudden explosion of anger as shocking

A more general term that can describe a strong explosion or any strong burst of something; can be used casually in everyday language.

• The loud blast from the fireworks scared the dogs
• Workers heard a blast and rushed to the scene to find out what happened

Often used in a technical or military context to describe the action of causing an explosive device to explode.

• The safe detonation of old bombs is a careful process
• The detonation of the explosive was controlled to minimize damage