blast out: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘blast out’ mean?

The idiom "blast out" means to play music or sound at a very high volume or intensity. It can also refer to sending a message or communication quickly and forcefully.

Idiom Explorer

Explosive Origins

The idiom "blast out" is commonly used in the English language to describe a forceful or powerful action. It can refer to speaking loudly, singing with a powerful voice, or playing music at high volume. This versatile expression originated in the mid-19th century and continues to be used in contemporary English.

When someone "blasts out" something, it implies a strong and vigorous delivery. For example, a singer may "blast out" a high note, captivating the audience with their powerful voice. Similarly, when a public speaker "blasts out" their message, they grab the attention of the listeners with their loud and compelling delivery.

In addition to describing a forceful delivery, "blast out" can also refer to the expulsion or removal of something from a location. Imagine a firefighter trying to rescue someone from a burning building. They may "blast out" a door, forcefully breaking it open to gain access and save lives. Similarly, if you "blast out" a stain, you vigorously remove it using cleaning agents, ensuring it is completely eliminated.

Another usage of "blast out" is the metaphorical description of a rapid and energetic completion of a task. If someone needs to finish a report quickly and efficiently to meet a tight deadline, they may "blast it out." This conveys the idea that they are working with great speed and energy, ensuring the task is completed on time.

Blast the music out and let's dance!

The idiom "blast out" is also commonly associated with music. When you "blast out" music, you play it at a high volume, creating an immersive and energetic atmosphere. This usage is often seen at parties, concerts, or any situation where loud music is played to enhance the overall experience.

Now, let's talk about the related idioms to "blast out." One of them is "blare out," which shares a similar meaning with "blast out." When you "blare out" something, it means you are playing it or emitting it loudly and forcefully. This can refer to music, sounds, or even announcements.

For example, imagine attending a concert where the music is so loud that it "blares out." The lively and energetic performance fills the entire venue, captivating the audience and creating a thrilling experience. Similarly, when an alarm "blares out," it grabs everyone's attention with its loud and penetrating sound.

An interesting related idiom is "blast off." While "blast off" does not share the exact same meaning as "blast out," it does have a similar connotation of force and power. "Blast off" is commonly used in the context of space exploration, particularly to describe the moment when a spacecraft leaves the ground and initiates its journey into space.

When a rocket "blasts off," it propels itself with great force and energy, defying gravity and venturing into the unknown. This idiom conveys the idea of a powerful launch, symbolizing the beginning of an exciting and groundbreaking expedition.

The idiom "blast out" is an expression commonly used in the English language. It conveys force, energy, and loudness in various contexts. Whether it's describing a powerful delivery, the forceful removal of something, or the completion of a task with great speed, "blast out" is a versatile idiom that continues to be used in contemporary English. Additionally, the related idioms "blare out" and "blast off" share similar connotations of force and power. Remember, the key to using idioms effectively is understanding their meaning and using them appropriately in the right context.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "blast out" can be used in a sentence:

1. She blasted out the music from her car stereo as she drove down the street.

2. The workers blasted out the debris to clear a path for construction.

3. The band members blasted out their latest hit song at the concert.

More "Verb" idioms