Defuse vs Diffuse

Defuse vs Diffuse

Defuse – To remove a fuse, generally from a bomb, to prevent it from blowing up. It is also used in conversation to indicate peace-making in a tense situation.

For e.g.:

1. The bomb squad is well equipped to defuse the bomb.

2. The discussion with the Principal and the parents was getting heated up, so the Vice-Principal had to step in to defuse the tension.

Diffuse –Diffuse means to spread out, or scatter over an area. It can be used both as a verb and an adjective. Both examples are given below.

As a verb

For e.g.:

1. When the thermometer broke, the mercury inside it diffused.

2. Professional photographers carry an instrument to diffuse light, to take photos in soft light.

As an adjective

For e.g.:

1. The lecturer gave a much diffused speech; most of the students were unable to understand the crux of the matter.

2. The text book on Physics by Goldsmith and Carpenter is diffuse and confusing; the book by Kapoor and Treasurywala would be a better choice.

Read the following sentences and fill in the blank with the right words

1. Vikram is good at ______ (defusing/diffusing) conflicts and is always called on as a peacekeeper.
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2. Potassium permanganate will _______ (defuse/diffuse) quickly in water.
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3. Manish has a risky job at the political gathering today to ________ (defuse/diffuse bombs), if there are any.
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4. The Independence Day speech by our Prime Minister was _______ (defuse/diffuse) and lengthy.
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5. Sanjay was having a heated argument with his manager; the ringing of his mobile ______ (defused/diffused) the situation.
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