Word: Detonate
Part of Speech: Verb
Basic Definition: To "detonate" means to cause something, like a bomb or an explosive, to burst with a lot of energy and often in a violent way. When something detonates, it usually makes a loud noise and can cause destruction.
Usage Instructions: - "Detonate" is used when talking about explosives or things that can explode. You can use it in both active and passive forms. For example, you can say "They detonated the bomb" (active) or "The bomb was detonated" (passive).
Example Sentence: - "The bomb detonated at noon, shaking the entire city."
Advanced Usage: - "Detonate" can also be used metaphorically, meaning to trigger a strong reaction or event. For example, "His speech detonated a heated debate among the audience."
Word Variants: - Noun: Detonation – This refers to the act or process of detonating. - Example: "The detonation of the fireworks was spectacular." - Adjective: Detonative – Relating to or causing detonation. - Example: "The detonative properties of the material were tested in the lab."
Different Meanings: - While "detonate" primarily refers to explosions, it can also imply initiating a strong reaction or change in a situation (as in the metaphorical use mentioned above).
Synonyms: - Explode - Burst - Blow up - Ignite (in some contexts)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "detonate," but you might hear phrases like "set off" (to cause something to explode) or "go off" (to explode or activate, often used for alarms or bombs). - Example: "The alarm went off suddenly, causing everyone to panic."
Summary: "Detonate" is a verb that refers to the act of causing an explosion or a violent burst of energy, often associated with bombs or other explosives. It can also be used in a more figurative sense to describe triggering strong reactions or events.