Synonyms for

Explosive

Verb / ɪˈkspləʊsɪv / Another word for explosive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

able or likely to cause an explosion

Synonyms & similar words

nonexplosive volatile blasting bursting combustible crackling detonating flashing fulminating loud noisy thunderous volatile vibrating resounding blaring deafening ear-popping ear-splitting thundering shattering popping

Synonyms by register

Formal

detonating combustible volatile

Informal

blow-up bomb-like fiery

Literary

fulminant effervescent

Antonyms

calm peaceful stable controlled inert quiet

Common collocations

  • explosive device
  • explosive material
  • explosive growth
  • explosive temper
  • explosive situation
  • explosive power
  • explosive force

Word family

noun explosion
verb explode
adjective explosive
adverb explosively

Usage note

While 'explosive' can describe a substance that explodes, it is also commonly used metaphorically to describe rapid growth or a volatile temper.

Example sentences

  1. The explosive firecrackers lit up the night sky.
  2. The scientist was careful when handling the explosive chemicals.
  3. The loud and explosive music made everyone want to dance.
  4. The volcano erupted with an explosive force.
  5. The athletes used explosive energy to sprint to the finish line.

Quotes

  • I'm like a firework, I make it explosive.
  • The only thing that should be explosive in boxing are my punches.
  • The beauty of a sunset is that it's fleeting. Explosive, but fleeting.

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