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Bomb defusal? Is "defusal" a word?

English Language & Usage Asked on June 29, 2021

Is "defusal" a legitimate verbal noun form of the verb "to defuse". Is it correct to describe a guide on how to defuse bombs as a "bomb defusal manual"?

2 Answers

There's no such word in the regular dictionaries (Oxford for example), and bomb disposal is the usual phrase in common usage. Defusal is probably military jargon formed by similarity to refuse/refusal, or from the -al added in 'disposal'.

Correct answer by EditingFrank on June 29, 2021

I don't think you can directly compare etymologically to "refusal" or "disposal" as defuse comes from removing a fuse. I think "Defusing" fits. Like "delousing". eg, The technician carried out defusing of the device.

Answered by Phil on June 29, 2021

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