explosive

Everyday

1. (noun) An explosive is a substance or device that can blow up, such as dynamite or a bomb. tree →
2. (adjective) Explosive means able or likely to explode. tree →
3. (adjective) Explosive can mean sudden and violent, like an explosive temper. tree →
4. (adjective) An explosive situation is very tense and could suddenly turn into trouble. tree →
5. Explosive growth or speed is very fast. tree →

In the lessons

In science and safety lessons pupils learn that some gases, fireworks and chemicals are explosive and must be handled only by adults or experts. In stories it describes sudden anger or action. Phrases: explosive temper, explosive device, highly explosive.

Examples

• Fireworks contain explosives, so only adults should light them. tree →
• Petrol vapour is highly explosive. tree →
• The police found an explosive device and cleared the street. tree →
• He has an explosive temper and shouts suddenly. tree →
• The striker's explosive speed beat the defenders. tree →
• The argument became explosive. tree →
• Never touch a package marked «explosive». tree →

Note

Countable noun: an explosive, explosives. Verb: explode; noun: explosion. Safety: never play with fireworks, gas canisters or unknown objects; tell an adult. Myth: not every bang is an explosion of chemicals; a burst balloon is not explosive.