“Burst someone’s bubble” is a common idiom used in English that refers to the act of destroying someone’s illusions, dreams, or hopes. This phrase is often used in situations where someone is overly optimistic or naive about a particular situation, and someone else needs to bring them back to reality.
Definitions
To “burst someone’s bubble” means to shatter someone’s illusions or hopes by revealing the harsh truth or reality of a situation. It is a metaphorical expression that refers to the act of popping a bubble, which is a fragile and temporary object that can easily be destroyed.
Origin
The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. It is thought to have come from the idea of a child playing with soap bubbles and having their bubble burst by someone else, which would cause them disappointment and frustration.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, to “burst someone’s bubble” means to destroy someone’s illusions or hopes by exposing the truth. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “to tell someone that something they believe is not true or will not happen, in a way that upsets them.”
Associations
The phrase “burst someone’s bubble” is often associated with disappointment, disillusionment, and a loss of innocence. It is also associated with the idea of being overly optimistic or naive about a situation and needing someone else to bring you back to reality.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “burst someone’s bubble” include:
- Disillusion.
- Disappoint.
- Disabuse.
- Enlighten.
- Inform.
- Correct.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of “burst someone’s bubble” include:
- Encourage.
- Support.
- Validate.
- Affirm.
- Reassure.
The same root words
There are no direct root words for this idiom, but it is related to the idea of bursting or popping something, such as a bubble or a balloon.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the idiom “burst someone’s bubble”:
- “I hate to burst your bubble, but you’re not going to win the lottery.”
- “I had to burst her bubble and tell her that the job she applied for had already been filled.”
- “Don’t burst his bubble too soon – let him enjoy his fantasy for a little while longer.”
- “She was so excited about her new business idea, but I had to burst her bubble and tell her that it wasn’t very practical.”
“Burst someone’s bubble” is a common idiom used in English that refers to the act of destroying someone’s illusions, dreams, or hopes. It is often used in situations where someone is overly optimistic or naive about a particular situation, and someone else needs to bring them back to reality. While it can be a difficult thing to do, sometimes it is necessary in order to prevent further disappointment or frustration.