"set off a bomb" or " set a bomb off"

[roniy]

"set off a bomb" or " set a bomb off"

I know these both are possible. But is there any significant difference or any difference at all ?

Thanks.

 

[Random1]

I think they are the exact same

The bus went under 50 mph and it set off a bomb
or
the bus went under 50 mph and it set the bomb off.

For some reason I want to use "the" in set the bomb off, instead of a bomb off. "A" seems wierd for some reason.

 

[Kevin R]

Don't consider there is any difference, Roniy, both are in general use, though we'd probably say "detonated a bomb"

 

[Joelline]

Hello roniy,

I suppose, if pushed, one could make a distinction between the two, but it would be a distinction without a difference! The distinction would be so subtle, if it exists at all, that most native speakers wouldn't pick up on it!

Hope this helps.
Joelline