detonate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
detonate Word Meanings
- to explode or cause to explode
- to trigger a bomb
- to cause a sudden release of energy
detonate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
detonate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdɛt.ə.neɪt/
US
/ˈdɛt.ə.neɪt/
detonate Word Etymology
Root: 'de-' (down) + 'tonare' (to thunder). Historical Origin: Latin > Old French > English. Memory Image: Imagine a thunderstorm where lightning strikes down, causing an explosion, linking thunder with a powerful release of energy.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Detonate means to cause something to explode, or to trigger an explosion in an explosive device. It can describe a deliberate initiation, as when a detonation is scheduled or remotely triggered, and it can apply to both weapons and controlled experiments. In everyday English, you typically say that a device detonates or detonated, not merely explode, especially in technical or safety contexts. The verb is transitive: you detonate something, or the device detonates. Metaphorically, people might say emotions or situations detonate, but this is less common and often sounds dramatic. When teaching, keep in mind the nuance between initiate, trigger, and detonate to avoid clumsy phrasing.
Usage Reminders
- Keep it transitive: detonate something; avoid using detonate for a simple explosion. Distinguish trigger, ignite, and explode. Use past tense detonation forms when talking about a completed event. In safety reporting, prefer detonate over explode to emphasize initiation. Do not use detonate to describe metaphorical outbursts unless you want a strong, dramatic tone. Check collocations: detonate a device, detonation sequence, remote detonation.
Common Misconceptions
- Detonate is the same as explode in all contexts.
- Only bombs can be detonated; everyday explosions do not use this term.
- Detonate cannot be used in metaphor or idioms.
- Detonate always requires a remote trigger.
- Detonation and explosion refer to the same moment in time.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations (detonate a device, remote detonation)
- distinguish detonate from explode
- practice past tense: detonated, detonation
- read safety reports to see formal usage
- note passive forms: be detonated
- watch for contexts like military or testing
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'detonate'?
A.To inform someone
B.To explode violently
C.To celebrate an event
D.To calculate a total
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'detonate' in a sentence.
A.The bomb is set to detonate at midnight.
B.The detective decided to detonate the cake for the party.
C.She wanted to detonate a new project at work.
D.He hopes to detonate his latest painting at the gallery.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'detonate'?
A.Launch
B.Explode
C.Finish
D.Create
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'detonate'?
A.Activate
B.Prepare
C.Defuse
D.Repair
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something might detonate?
A.The firefighters worked to diffuse the bomb threat in the area.
B.A team is planning to celebrate a successful mission.
C.The military conducted a test to detonate an explosive device.
D.They safely transported the materials without any incident.
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