The word "bom" can refer to different things depending on the context, but it often relates to a type of explosive device, though it's less commonly used. Notably, in some cultures or colloquial contexts, "bom" might also be an informal term for "bomb," particularly in slang. Its frequency of use is not particularly high in standard English compared to more common terms. It tends to appear more frequently in written contexts, especially in literature or discussions related to explosives, military language, or specific cultural references.
Translation: A bomba foi descoberta pelas autoridades antes de conseguir detonar.
He made a joke about the old movie featuring a fictional bom.
Translation: Ele fez uma piada sobre o velho filme que apresentava uma bomba fictícia.
In the game, the players can use a bom to clear obstacles.
Although "bom" itself is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions in English, its variant "bomb" is frequently used:
Translation: O político lançou uma bomba quando anunciou sua renúncia.
To bomb out
Translation: Eu realmente falhei nesse teste; não consegui me lembrar de nada.
To go off like a bomb
Translation: Aquela nova música foi um sucesso estrondoso no concerto.
To bomb (as a verb)
The term "bomb" originates from the Latin word bombus, meaning "buzzing" or "hum." This term entered into French and then into English in the late 16th century, adapting over time to include meanings related to explosive devices.
In summary, while "bom" and its variations may not be common or widely recognized in everyday English, they appear in specific contexts and idiomatic uses involving explosives or failures.