defuse

[US]/ˌdiːˈfjuːz/
[UK]/ˌdiːˈfjuːz/
Frequency: Very High

Translation

vt. remove the fuse from (an explosive) in order to reduce the danger of it causing an explosion.

Phrases & Collocations

defuse a bomb

Example Sentences

an attempt to defuse dispute.

a hasty attempt to defuse the situation.

to defuse a dangerous situation

a diplomatic move that defused the international crisis.

defused the hostility with a deft turn of phrase.

explosives specialists tried to defuse the grenade.

The bomb blew up as experts tried to defuse it.

The two groups will meet next week to try to defuse the crisis.

Real-world Examples

Western leaders are ramping up efforts to defuse a crisis in Kosovo amid ongoing tension.

Source: VOA Daily Standard June 2023 Collection

Or is it going to, you know, defuse the situation? What do you think?

Source: NPR News February 2022 Compilation

They had the dangerous job of defusing bombs.

Source: VOA Special English - Life

Besides, someone needs to defuse that bomb.

Source: TV series Person of Interest Season 3

The European Union has invited Tehran's foreign minister to Brussels in a bid to defuse tensions.

Source: VOA Standard English - Middle East

Have you ever defused a bomb vest before?

Source: TV series Person of Interest Season 2

The Untied States was responding to a proposal from North Korea for high-level talks to defuse tensions.

Source: BBC Listening Collection June 2013

It is not too late to defuse the situation.

Source: The Economist (Summary)

Well, he's trying to defuse tensions with this.

Source: NPR News October 2015 Collection

Ukraine has to take urgent steps to defuse the crisis.

Source: NPR News April 2014 Collection

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