quantum leap
/ˈkwɑːntəm ˈliːp/
NOUN
1. A sudden and significant advance
A very large, rapid, or dramatic improvement or development in a particular area, often representing a major step beyond what was previously possible.
1.1. Major progress or improvement
A substantial improvement in quality, performance, ability, or effectiveness that marks a significant advance over an earlier state.
Synonyms
- breakthrough
- major advance
- great improvement
- significant progress
- radical improvement
- quantum jump
Antonyms
- setback
- decline
- deterioration
- regression
- backward step
Examples
- The new battery technology represents a quantum leap in energy storage.
- Her performance has made a quantum leap since the beginning of the season.
- The software update delivers a quantum leap in processing speed.
Related Words
- advancement
- development
- enhancement
- innovation
- milestone
1.2. Transformative technological or scientific development
A revolutionary development in science, technology, or knowledge that introduces capabilities or understanding far beyond previous achievements.
Synonyms
- breakthrough
- revolutionary advance
- paradigm shift
- major innovation
- transformative development
- scientific breakthrough
Antonyms
- stagnation
- regression
- technological decline
Examples
- The invention of the transistor was a quantum leap in electronics.
- Artificial intelligence has enabled a quantum leap in certain areas of scientific research.
- The discovery opened the door to a quantum leap in medical treatment.
Related Words
- discovery
- invention
- revolution
- innovation
- transformation
NOUN
2. An abrupt transition between quantum states
A transition of an atomic or subatomic system from one discrete quantum state or energy level to another, typically involving the absorption or emission of energy.
2.1. Transition between energy levels
A change in the energy state of an electron, atom, or molecule from one permitted quantum level to another.
Synonyms
- quantum jump
- electronic transition
- atomic transition
- energy-level transition
Examples
- The electron undergoes a quantum leap when it moves from one energy level to another.
- The absorption of a photon can trigger a quantum leap to a higher energy state.
Related Words
- quantum transition
- energy level
- electron
- photon
- quantum state
- quantum mechanics