# burst into

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/burst-into
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to suddenly start doing something, like crying, laughing, or singing.

For teachers: to suddenly and spontaneously begin a specific state or action; often used with nouns representing emotional outbursts or sudden movement.

## Examples

- The audience burst into laughter after the joke.
- She was so overwhelmed by the news that she burst into tears immediately.
- As the sun finally dipped below the horizon, the dry brush burst into flames, lighting up the entire valley.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He burst into to cry." but "He burst into tears." — this phrase is followed by a noun, not an infinitive verb.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a noun representing an action or emotion, such as tears, laughter, song, or flames.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'break into' (often used for physical entry or a change in pace like 'break into a run'); 'burst into' emphasizes the sudden, explosive nature of the start.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.