Table of Contents
Introduction
The words diffuse and defuse are confusing because they sound almost the same but their meaning is different.
The verb diffuse means to spread or scatter. However, the verb defuse means to remove the fuse from (a bomb..) or to reduce the tension.
This article explains the difference between the two words and offers examples to clear the confusion the confusion.
Diffuse and Defuse
Diffuse or defuse? Which one to use and in which context?
Diffuse
The word diffuse is a verb and means to spread. It may also be used as an adjective to mean spread or scattered; not concentrated.
Synonyms of diffuse: spread, disseminate, scatter, disperse, distribute, propagate, transmit, broadcast, promulgate…
Examples:
- Many dangerous ideas are diffused over the Internet by extremists.
- They constitute a large diffuse community.
- The scent of the flowers diffused throughout the room, creating a pleasant atmosphere.
- The news of the company’s layoffs quickly diffused among the employees, causing anxiety and uncertainty.
- The sunlight diffused through the clouds, casting a soft, warm glow over the landscape.
Defuse
The word defuse has a literal and a figurative meaning.
1. Literal Meaning
Literally, the word defuse is a verb. It means to remove the fuse from (an explosive device). It is made up of the prefix de- and the word fuse:
- “De-” means reversal or undoing of the effects of an action.
- The term “fuse” refers to a mechanism used to detonate an explosive device.
2. Figurative Meaning:
The verb “defuse” also means to reduce the tension, danger, hostility…
Synonyms of diffuse: deactivate, disarm, disable, make safe, ease, calm…
Examples:
- The agent tried to defuse the bomb.
- The secretary-general is trying to defuse the Middle East crisis.
- The therapist used humor to defuse the tension in the room during the counseling session.
- The mayor’s speech aimed to defuse the growing discontent among the citizens over the new tax regulations.
- The mediator’s role is to defuse conflicts between parties and find peaceful resolutions.
More examples with “defuse.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, while “diffuse” and “defuse” may sound alike, their meanings are distinct. “Diffuse” refers to spreading or scattering, whereas “defuse” refers to removing the fuse from a bomb or reducing tension. Understanding the difference between these words can help in using them correctly and effectively in various contexts.
Diffuse and defuse Quiz
Quiz: Diffuse and Defuse
- What is the meaning of the word “diffuse”?
- a) To remove the fuse from a bomb
- b) To spread or scatter
- c) To deactivate a bomb
- d) To reduce tension or danger
- Which word is used to describe spreading or scattering?
- a) Diffuse
- b) Defuse
- What does the word “defuse” mean?
- a) To spread or scatter
- b) To remove the fuse from a bomb
- c) To increase tension or danger
- d) To activate a bomb
- What does the prefix de- in the word “defuse” mean?
- a) Removing something
- b) Doing something again
- Which of the following synonyms is most closely related to “defuse”?
- a) Disarm
- b) Scatter
- c) Spread
- d) Transmit
- If you want to describe a situation where tension is reduced, which word would you use?
- a) Diffuse
- b) Defuse
- Which word can be used as both a verb and an adjective?
- a) Diffuse
- b) Defuse
- Finish the sentence: “The firefighter managed to _____ the bomb before it exploded.”
- a) Defuse
- b) Diffuse
- Which word is used to describe making something less concentrated?
- a) Defuse
- b) Diffuse
- In which context would you use the word “diffuse”?
- a) When describing the removal of a bomb’s fuse
- b) When describing the spreading of information or substances
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