What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deflagration
Example
The deflagration of the fireworks lit up the night sky. [deflagration: noun]
Example
The gasoline deflagrated when it came into contact with the spark. [deflagrated: past tense verb]
combustion
Example
The combustion of coal produces energy for electricity. [combustion: noun]
Example
The engine uses combustion to convert fuel into energy. [combustion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Combustion is more commonly used than deflagration in everyday language. Combustion is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while deflagration is less common and typically associated with accidents or explosions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deflagration and combustion?
Both deflagration and combustion are formal terms that are typically used in technical or scientific contexts.
