Be bursting to do something Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Intensity Suggests a strong feeling where you can hardly wait to act. He was bursting to run to the stage when his name was called. Pro Tip 2/3Informal Usage Best used in casual conversation, not formal settings. At the party, Mia was bursting to show off her new dance moves. Pro Tip 3/3Strong Desire Implies a personal, often irresistible desire or need to do something. After the exam, Jamie was bursting to go on vacation.