What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eruption
Example
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 destroyed the city of Pompeii. [eruption: noun]
Example
She couldn't control her eruption of laughter when she saw the puppy's silly antics. [eruption: noun]
Example
The child's skin had an eruption of red bumps after playing in the grass. [eruption: noun]
explosion
Example
The explosion at the chemical plant caused widespread damage and casualties. [explosion: noun]
Example
The city experienced an explosion of growth in the tech industry over the past decade. [explosion: noun]
Example
The fireworks show ended with a spectacular explosion of colors and sounds. [explosion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Explosion is more commonly used than eruption in everyday language. Explosion is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while eruption is less common and mainly used to describe volcanic activity or emotional outbursts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eruption and explosion?
While eruption is typically associated with a scientific or technical tone, explosion is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
