Burst into Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Sudden Emotion Use 'burst into' to describe an immediate and involuntary response to strong emotions. He burst into laughter at the joke. Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal 'Burst into' is figurative when expressing emotions and doesn't involve actual breaking. Upon receiving praise, she burst into smiles. Pro Tip 3/3Unexpected Action It implies the action or reaction was not anticipated, especially in emotional contexts. He burst into song in the middle of the conversation.