quantum leap
noun
plural quantum leaps
: an abrupt change, sudden increase, or dramatic advance
Note: Quantum leap is rarely used in scientific contexts, but it originated as a synonym of quantum jump, which describes an abrupt transition (as of an electron, an atom, or a molecule) from one discrete energy state to another.
Examples of quantum leap in a Sentence
Prices have taken a quantum leap upward.
The new drug is a quantum leap in the fight against cancer.
Recent Examples on the Web
Google's quantum leap Alphabet’s new Willow quantum chip showcases cutting-edge innovation.
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Benzinga, Detroit Free Press, 14 Dec. 2024
Playoff expansion is undeniably a quantum leap forward for the sport, but the process needs tweaks.
—Jon Wilner, The Mercury News, 10 Dec. 2024
Chess on grass The change in tack since 2019 is a quantum leap.
—Phil Hay, The Athletic, 23 July 2024
The quantum leap came with the arrival of the railroad in 1871.
—Michael Barnes, Austin American-Statesman, 13 Feb. 2024
See all Example Sentences for quantum leap 
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Benzinga, Detroit Free Press, 14 Dec. 2024
Playoff expansion is undeniably a quantum leap forward for the sport, but the process needs tweaks.
—Jon Wilner, The Mercury News, 10 Dec. 2024
Chess on grass The change in tack since 2019 is a quantum leap.
—Phil Hay, The Athletic, 23 July 2024
The quantum leap came with the arrival of the railroad in 1871.
—Michael Barnes, Austin American-Statesman, 13 Feb. 2024
See all Example Sentences for quantum leap
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Dictionary Entries Near quantum leap
Cite this Entry
“Quantum leap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quantum%20leap. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.
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