1 B1 neutral
To destroy something completely by means of an explosion.
"The bomb blew the bridge apart in seconds."
separable
blow apart
B2 neutral separable transitive
To destroy something by an explosion or violent force, or to thoroughly disprove an argument.
In plain English
To break something into pieces with an explosion, or to prove completely that something is wrong.
What does "blow apart" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To conclusively disprove or demolish an argument, theory, or claim.
"The new research blows apart the government's claims about the safety of the drug."
separable
3 B2 idiomatic neutral
To cause a group of people or a relationship to separate or fall into conflict.
"The scandal blew the coalition apart just weeks before the election."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
For wind or force to blow the pieces of something apart from each other.
Actually means
To break something into pieces with an explosion, or to prove completely that something is wrong.
Usage tip
Used both literally (explosions, physical destruction) and figuratively (demolishing an argument or theory). The figurative use is common in journalism and debate.
Words that pair with "blow apart"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
bomb explosion argument theory myth building claim
How to conjugate "blow apart"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
blow apart
I/you/we/they
3rd person
blows apart
he/she/it
Past simple
blew apart
yesterday
Past participle
blown apart
have + pp
-ing form
blowing apart
continuous
Hear "blow apart" in the wild
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Other ways to say "blow apart"
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Keep exploring
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