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die Explosion
explosion
A sudden, violent release of energy, often associated with a loud bang, heat, and a pressure wave.
example
Bei dem Chemieunfall kam es zu einer schweren Explosion.
The chemical accident caused a serious explosion.
die Explosion
explosion
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Die Explosion' (explosion) is the noun corresponding to the verb 'explodieren' (to explode). Both words describe a sudden, violent event and are used both literally and metaphorically.
EXAMPLE
Die Bombe ist zum Glück nicht explodiert.
Fortunately, the bomb did not explode.
Compound words
In its metaphorical meaning of 'sharp increase', 'Explosion' (explosion) is often the second part of compound nouns. Typical examples are 'Kostenexplosion' (cost explosion) or 'Preisexplosion' (price explosion).
EXAMPLE
Die Firma kämpft mit einer Kostenexplosion im Energiebereich.
The company is struggling with a cost explosion in the energy sector.
Typical expression
To express that an explosion has taken place, the formulation 'es kam zu einer Explosion' (there was/an explosion occurred) is very common and sounds natural.
EXAMPLE
Durch einen technischen Defekt kam es zu einer Explosion in der Fabrik.
A technical defect caused an explosion in the factory.
Metaphorical use
The word is often used figuratively. If it is about numbers, data, or prices, it means a rapid increase. If it is about emotions such as anger or joy, it means a sudden outburst.
EXAMPLE
Wir erleben gerade eine Explosion der Nutzerzahlen auf unserer Webseite.
We are currently experiencing an explosion in user numbers on our website.
Compare with
Explosion vs Wachstum
growth
'das Wachstum' and 'die Explosion' can both describe a sharp increase, for example in prices, numbers, or a company. 'Wachstum' sounds more like a process that develops and can take longer. It can be fast or slow. 'Explosion', on the other hand, emphasizes that something rises suddenly and very sharply. Learners may confuse the words if they are only thinking of 'becoming more'. As a practical rule: for normal or planned development, 'Wachstum' fits better; for a rapid, surprising increase, 'Explosion' is more precise.
Explosion
Nach der Werbung gab es eine Explosion der Bestellungen im Online-Shop.
After the advertisement, there was an explosion of orders in the online shop.
Wachstum
Das Wachstum der kleinen Firma war in diesem Jahr sehr stabil.
The growth of the small company was very stable this year.
In real life
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