Definition

Verb phrase: - To say or do something that is very surprising, shocking, or upsetting to others. It refers to the act of suddenly revealing startling news or information, much like the sudden and violent effect of an actual bomb exploding.

Usage

This phrase is used to describe the moment when surprising or shocking information is revealed. It emphasizes the sudden, impactful, and often disruptive nature of the revelation. - It is typically used with a person as the subject who delivers the shocking news. - The news itself is the "bombshell."

Examples

• The CEO exploded a bombshell at the meeting by announcing the immediate closure of three factories.
• She exploded a bombshell when she told her family she was moving abroad alone.
• The investigative report exploded a bombshell that changed the entire political landscape.

Advanced Usage

• Tense Variations: The phrase can be used in all tenses (e.g., , , , a bombshell).
• Passive Construction: While less common, the concept can be expressed passively (e.g., ).

Variants and Related Words

• Bombshell (noun): The shocking piece of news or revelation itself.
  • The resignation of the minister was a real bombshell.
• Drop a bombshell (verb phrase): A very common synonym with identical meaning.
  • He dropped a bombshell by confessing everything.

Synonyms

• Spring a surprise: To reveal something unexpected.
• Drop a bombshell: To announce shocking news (the most direct synonym).
• Rock the boat: To cause trouble or disruption, often by introducing an unsettling change.

Related Idioms

• Bolt from the blue: A complete surprise, similar to a sudden bombshell, but this idiom focuses more on the event itself being surprising rather than the act of revealing it.
  • The news of their divorce came as a bolt from the blue.

Verb

1. utter or do something surprising
   • Father exploded a bombshell when he forbade us to go to the prom