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 ancient city of Pompeii. [eruption: noun]
Example
She couldn't control her eruption of anger when she found out the news. [eruption: noun]
Example
The sudden eruption of violence caught everyone off guard. [eruption: noun]
outburst
Example
He had an outburst of laughter when he heard the joke. [outburst: noun]
Example
The singer received an outburst of applause after her performance. [outburst: noun]
Example
She had an outburst of creative energy and wrote three songs in one night. [outburst: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outburst is more commonly used than eruption in everyday language. Outburst is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while eruption is less common and is typically used in scientific or geological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eruption and outburst?
While eruption is typically associated with a formal and scientific tone, outburst is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wide range of situations.
