Translation guide
The English word 'explosion' can refer to a violent burst, a sudden loud noise, a rapid increase, or a sudden outburst of emotion. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
A sudden, violent release of energy, often with fire, smoke, and destruction.
The most common and general word for explosion. Can be used for bombs, gas, volcanoes, etc.
The building collapsed due to a gas explosion.
The volcano exploded.
Often refers to a deliberate explosion, such as a controlled demolition or bombing. Can also be used as a verb (爆破する).
They blew up the old building.
A more literary or dramatic word for explosion or burst, often used in fiction or technical contexts.
The shell exploded.
A very loud, sharp sound like a bang or boom.
A sudden, dramatic increase in number, amount, or intensity.
Means 'rapid increase' or 'surge'. Commonly used for population, prices, cases, etc.
The population is exploding.
Literally 'explosive increase'. Stronger than 急増, emphasizing the suddenness and magnitude.
Pattern: [subject] が急増する. A versatile way to say something is increasing rapidly.
Complaints exploded.
A sudden, intense expression of emotion, especially anger or laughter.
Also used metaphorically for emotional outbursts. Often with 怒り (anger) or 笑い (laughter).
He exploded with anger.
Literally 'gushing out', used for emotions erupting suddenly, like anger or dissatisfaction.
A set phrase meaning 'emotions explode'.
My pent-up emotions exploded.
爆発 (ばくはつ) is a general explosion, often accidental. 爆破 (ばくは) implies a deliberate act, like demolition or bombing. Use 爆破する for 'to blow up' something intentionally.
The gas exploded in an accident.
Terrorists blew up the building.
While 笑いの爆発 is understood, it can sound slightly dramatic. In casual conversation, 大笑い (おおわらい, big laugh) or 爆笑 (ばくしょう, explosive laughter) are more natural.
Everyone burst out laughing at the joke.
爆発の轟音が町中に響いた。
The roar of the explosion echoed through the town.
The number of social media users exploded.
The room was filled with an explosion of laughter.
不満が噴出した。
Dissatisfaction exploded.