What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shot
Example
He took a shot at the target and missed. [shot: noun]
Example
The nurse gave me a flu shot this morning. [shot: noun]
Example
I'll give it a shot and see if I can fix the problem. [shot: idiom]
explosion
Example
The explosion destroyed several buildings and injured many people. [explosion: noun]
Example
The company experienced an explosion in sales after launching their new product. [explosion: metaphor]
Example
There was an explosion of applause when the band finished their performance. [explosion: metaphor]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shot is more commonly used than explosion in everyday language, especially in the context of firearms or medical injections. Explosion is less common and usually reserved for describing more extreme events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shot and explosion?
Both shot and explosion can be used in formal and informal contexts, but explosion may be considered more formal due to its association with scientific or technical language.
