Differences between chicken out and flame out
Chicken out means to decide not to do something because of fear or lack of courage, whereas flame out means to fail suddenly and completely, especially in a dramatic or embarrassing way.
Meanings and Definitions: chicken out vs flame out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Chicken out
- 1Be too afraid to do something.
I CHICKENED OUT of the bungee jumping when I saw how high it was.
Flame out
- 1Fail.
The company FLAMED OUT in the recession.
Usage Examples: chicken out, flame out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
chicken out
Example
I don't want to chicken out of the speech competition.
Example
She always chickens out when it's time to speak in public.
flame out
Example
The new restaurant flamed out after only six months.
Example
The startup flames out due to lack of funding.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Chicken out
lose one's nerve
To become too scared or anxious to do something previously planned or intended.
Example
She lost her nerve before jumping off the cliff and decided to climb back down instead.
wimp out
To avoid doing something challenging or difficult due to a lack of courage or determination.
Example
He wimped out of the marathon after only running a few miles because he didn't think he could finish it.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Flame out
crash and burn
To fail spectacularly or disastrously, especially in a public or humiliating way.
Example
The new product launch crashed and burned after receiving negative reviews from customers and critics alike.
Differences in chicken out vs flame out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: chicken out or flame out?
In everyday conversation, chicken out is more common than flame out. This is because chicken out is used to describe a common human emotion, while flame out is used to describe a specific type of failure that may not occur as frequently.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of chicken out and flame out
Chicken out and flame out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of chicken out and flame out
The tone of chicken out and flame out can differ based on context. Chicken out often carries a negative or disappointed tone when related to someone's decision not to do something, while flame out typically has a more neutral or humorous tone, especially when referring to a failed attempt or performance.