burst into

Idioms  

1. Also, . Break out into sudden activity. For example, burst into flames means “break out in a fire,” as in This dry woodpile may well burst into flames . A version of this term, which dates from the 16th century, was used figuratively by John Milton: “Fame is the spur ... But the fair guerdon [reward] when we hope to find, and think to burst out into sudden blaze” ( Lycidas , 1637).

2. Also, burst out . Give sudden utterance to. For example, , etc. mean “begin suddenly to weep, laugh, sing,” and so on, as in When she saw him, she burst into tears , or I burst out laughing when I saw their outfits , or When they brought in the cake, we all burst into song . These terms have been so used since the late 1300s.

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Example Sentences

When it was over, Natalie's family burst into cheers and applause.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

The A9 is closed in both directions after a lorry burst into flames.

From BBC • May 27, 2026

The 31-year-old teaching assistant, who wears a headscarf, burst into tears in front of the security guard's booth -- the very spot where Abdullah gave his life to prevent a massacre.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

Luke Kennard, who burst into the postseason with 50 combined points in Games 1 and 2 against the Houston Rockets, shot only one for three from three.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Before Samaira could answer, Ella's parents and Headmarveller Rivera burst into the room.

From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton