Word
defuse
US/dɪfˈjuz/
UK/dɪfjˈuːz/
Definition
v. to make a dangerous situation less tense or less likely to cause a fight. It can also mean to remove the fuse from a bomb to stop it from exploding.
v. to remove the fuse from a bomb or explosive device to prevent detonation; by extension, to reduce the intensity or danger of a volatile situation. Transitive — requires a direct object.
Examples
“The negotiator worked hard to defuse the situation.”
“The police arrived quickly to defuse the bomb before it could cause any damage to the building.”
“A skilled diplomat must know how to defuse a crisis by addressing the underlying grievances before they escalate into a full-scale conflict.”
Examples
simple
“The negotiator worked hard to defuse the situation.”
contextual
“The police arrived quickly to defuse the bomb before it could cause any damage to the building.”
complex
“A skilled diplomat must know how to defuse a crisis by addressing the underlying grievances before they escalate into a full-scale conflict.”
Real-World Examples
“Seoul has tried to defuse the tension earlier this year, committing $350bn to investing in the US.” “He wades through snow, sets up camera traps, and tries to defuse tensions with local herders.” Etymology
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/defuse