What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outbreak
Example
The outbreak of COVID-19 caused a global pandemic. [outbreak: noun]
Example
There was an outbreak of violence in the city center last night. [outbreak: noun]
eruption
Example
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius destroyed the ancient city of Pompeii. [eruption: noun]
Example
She couldn't control her laughter and erupted into a fit of giggles. [erupted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outbreak is more commonly used than eruption in everyday language. Outbreak is frequently used in news reports and medical contexts, while eruption is more commonly used in geology and emotional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outbreak and eruption?
Both outbreak and eruption are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
