C1adjective2K

UK/["/ɪkˈspləʊsɪv//ɪkˈspləʊzɪv/"]/US/["/ɪkˈspləʊsɪv//ɪkˈspləʊzɪv/"]/

Meaning of Explosive

easily able or likely to explode

In simple words: Something that can explode or is very strong and sudden.

Explosive in a sentence

  • an **explosive device** *(= a bomb)*
  • an explosive mixture of chemicals
  • Hydrogen is highly explosive.
  • one of the most explosive issues of our time
  • The political situation is potentially explosive.
  • an explosive temper
  • the explosive growth of the export market
  • There was an explosive crash and then everything fell silent.

How to use Explosive

Often used in contexts related to chemistry, military, or describing intense emotions. Avoid in casual conversation unless referring to a specific event.

Grammar pattern

explosive + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'explosion' to remember 'explosive' — it's about big, loud bursts.

Related words

Collocations with Explosive

Synonyms for Explosive

Opposites of Explosive

Common mistakes with Explosive

  • 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'.

Compare Explosive with Volatile, Dynamic, Intense

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Explosive in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Explosive

What does Explosive mean?

Something that can explode or is very strong and sudden.

What is the definition of Explosive?

easily able or likely to explode

How do you use Explosive in a sentence?

an **explosive device** *(= a bomb)*

Can you give another example of Explosive?

an explosive mixture of chemicals

What are synonyms for Explosive?

Common alternatives include detonative, volatile, dynamic, intense, forceful.

What is the opposite of Explosive?

Opposite meanings include calm, peaceful, stable.

What words go with Explosive?

It commonly pairs with be, highly, be, become, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Explosive?

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'.

How do you pronounce Explosive?

US: /["/ɪkˈspləʊsɪv//ɪkˈspləʊzɪv/"]/, UK: /["/ɪkˈspləʊsɪv//ɪkˈspləʊzɪv/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Explosive?

Often used in contexts related to chemistry, military, or describing intense emotions. Avoid in casual conversation unless referring to a specific event.

What CEFR level is Explosive?

"Explosive" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.