Synonyms for

Outbreaks

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

Definition

A sudden occurrence or increase of something, typically something unwelcome or harmful.

Synonyms & similar words

outbreak eruption irruption epidemic pandemic flare-up surge eruption burst explosion onslaught spate wave outpouring flood rush flow stream avalanche blaze infection contagion pestilence

Synonyms by register

Formal

eruptions commencements beginnings outbursts

Informal

flare-ups bursts spikes

Literary

efflorescences outwellings

Antonyms

cessations endings halts pauses stoppages terminations

Common collocations

  • disease outbreaks
  • violent outbreaks
  • outbreaks of violence
  • outbreaks of flu
  • outbreaks of war
  • sudden outbreaks
  • major outbreaks

Word family

noun outbreak
verb outbreak

Usage note

Primarily used to describe the sudden occurrence of something undesirable, such as disease, violence, or conflict. Less commonly used for positive events.

Example sentences

  1. There was an outbreak of laughter when the clown slipped on the banana peel.
  2. The school had to close due to an outbreak of lice.
  3. The outbreak of the virus caused people to panic.
  4. The outbreak of violence was unexpected.
  5. The outbreak of protests spread to other cities.

Quotes

  • 'Outbreaks of measles and other infectious diseases are occurring in parts of the world where vaccination coverage is declining,' - Margaret Chan
  • 'Human history has consisted only of short, localized outbreaks of rationality. - Northrop Frye
  • 'There have been outbreaks of Ebola before, but nothing on the scale of this.' - Bruce Aylward

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