Texas Court Reporter Practice Exam

The term "burst" in the context of laughter typically refers to a sudden, spontaneous outpouring of emotion, which can manifest as laughter. When someone "bursts out laughing," it conveys an uncontrollable reaction to humor or amusement, suggesting a strong and immediate response. This phrase captures the essence of laughter, indicating both the vigor and suddenness of the action.

While a "guffaw" is also a strong and hearty laugh, it is more specific in its connotation and may not represent all instances of laughter. "Bust" does not fit the context well, as it typically refers to breaking or an explosion, rather than a joyful reaction. "Smile" suggests amusement but does not indicate the act of laughter itself. Therefore, "burst" effectively captures the dynamic and spontaneous nature of laughter in this context.