quantum leaps

Noun

quantum leap (plural quantum leaps)

1. (quantum mechanics) The discontinuous change of the state of an electron in an atom or molecule from one energy level to another.
2. (figuratively) An abrupt, extreme change.
   • In the end, perhaps the practice of prayer effects a quantum leap of its own kind. It takes us, spontaneously and unexplainably, into the realm of spiritual energy.2001, Helene Ciaravino, How to Pray: Tapping Into the Power of Divine Communication, page 33

   Synonyms:

   quantum jump

3. (figuratively, informal, nonstandard) A large, massive, significant change.
   • I was at the elections in Namibia. We had problems there, … But I would say that this is a quantum leap forward when you think of the Mengistu government and the horrible repression, the famine, the tyranny that existed under him, and you see this movement toward freedom and democracy over there....1993, Mr Burton, before the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittee on Africa, Looking Back and Reaching Forward: Prospects for Democracy in Ethiopia : Hearing Before the...

See all 4 meanings of quantum leap