Outbreak

usgb/ˈaʊtbreɪk/
noun

A sudden start of something like a disease or conflict.

An outbreak of cholera hit our city last year.
Visual representation of "outbreak" - A sudden start of something like a disease or conflict

Often appears as...

  • outbreak of war
  • outbreak of disease
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "outbreak"
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Suddenness Key

Outbreak emphasizes the swift, unexpected nature of an event's beginning.

Illustration for Suddenness Key
The sudden outbreak of rebellion took the government by surprise.
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Negative Context

Outbreak usually refers to unwelcome events, often causing harm or concern.

Illustration for Negative Context
Health officials are concerned about the outbreak of a new flu strain.
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Collocation Matters

Pay attention to common collocations; 'outbreak of laughter' is rare but possible.

Illustration for Collocation Matters
Despite the tension, there was an outbreak of laughter when the mascot tripped.
Visual representation of the word "Outbreak"

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