‘Explotó’ is the simple past tense (preterite) used to describe a single action that happened and finished at a specific point in the past, like a sudden explosion.

The Preterite Tense

Use 'explotó' when you want to focus on the moment the explosion happened and the result, not the ongoing process.

Focus on the Result

Very common when describing sudden events or reactions.

When 'explotó' is used for emotions, it means the feeling or reaction was sudden, intense, and short-lived, marking a clear beginning and end to the outburst.

Emotional Preterite

Commonly used in emotional or metaphorical contexts.

Confusing Action Time

In Spanish, the verb 'explotar' covers both senses: physical detonation AND unfair use of people or resources. Context is key to knowing which meaning is intended.

Exploitation vs. Explosion

Common in social, political, or business discussions.

Learn the three main meanings of 'explotó' (he/she/it exploded, burst out, or exploited). Includes complete conjugation of 'explotar' in the simple past tense, examples for physical and emotional contexts, and tips for B2 learners.

explotó

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

subjunctive

imperfect

present

imperative

affirmative

negative

indicative

imperfect

conditional

present

preterite

future

Practice Conjugations