Cool MateExplosive vs Intense
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Explosive
Top 2,000 (common)C1adjective
Intense
Top 2,000 (common)B2adjective
| Explosive | Intense | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ɪkˈspləʊsɪv//ɪkˈspləʊzɪv/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪkˈspləʊsɪv//ɪkˈspləʊzɪv/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/ɪnˈtens/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪnˈtens/"]/ |
| Meaning | Something that can explode or is very strong and sudden. | Very strong or powerful. |
| Example | an **explosive device** *(= a bomb)* | The intense heat of the summer made it difficult to stay outside for long. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | C1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | adjective | adjective |
| Collocations | be, highly, be, become, extremely, fairly, very | be, become, get, extremely, fairly, very, be, become, get, extremely, fairly, very, be, become, get, extremely, fairly, very |
| Antonyms | calm, peaceful, stable | mild, gentle, weak |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'explodes' as a noun instead of an adjective., Using 'explosive' in situations where 'dramatic' or 'intense' would be more appropriate., Mispronouncing as 'explo-sive' instead of 'ex-ploh-sive'. | Confused with 'tension' when discussing feelings., Using 'intense' with a noun without proper context., Misplacing intensity in adjectives, e.g., saying 'very intense intense'. |
| Usage notes | Often used in contexts related to chemistry, military, or describing intense emotions. Avoid in casual conversation unless referring to a specific event. | Use 'intense' to describe feelings, experiences, or colors. It's suitable for formal and informal contexts, but avoid it in very casual conversations. |
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Frequently asked questions: Explosive vs Intense
What's the difference between Explosive and Intense?
Explosive: Something that can explode or is very strong and sudden. Intense: Very strong or powerful.
Which is more advanced: Explosive and Intense?
Explosive is the highest level, at C1, on the CEFR scale.
Are Explosive and Intense the same CEFR level?
Explosive: C1, Intense: B2 on the CEFR scale.
What part of speech are Explosive and Intense?
Explosive: adjective, Intense: adjective.
Can you show an example of each?
Explosive: an **explosive device** *(= a bomb)* Intense: The intense heat of the summer made it difficult to stay outside for long.
Can I use Explosive and Intense interchangeably?
Not always. Explosive and Intense are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.