Nota: A tradução desta entrada está atualmente em revisão de qualidade, portanto parte do conteúdo é exibida temporariamente apenas em inglês.
Este verbete ainda não foi traduzido para o seu idioma, portanto o original é exibido abaixo.
defuse
This term operates on a literal-to-figurative axis, moving from the physical act of disarming a bomb to the psychological act of calming a conflict. The literal sense is technical and precise, focusing on the removal of a trigger to prevent a catastrophic event.
In social or political contexts, the word suggests a strategic reduction of volatility. It implies that a situation has reached a critical point of tension and requires a deliberate, skillful intervention to prevent an emotional or violent outburst. It is frequently used in professional settings, such as diplomacy or crisis management, to describe the act of neutralizing hostility.
Meanings
Examples
I need to find a way to defuse the tension before the meeting starts.
He tried to defuse the argument with a well timed joke.
The bomb squad worked quickly to defuse the device.
The diplomat managed to defuse the crisis through careful negotiation.
The technician had only seconds to defuse the mine.
Maybe a little humor will defuse the mood in the room.