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Phrasal verbs "flame up" vs "flare up"

Differences between flame up and flare up

Flame up and flare up are very similar phrasal verbs, but there is a subtle difference between them. Flame up usually refers to a sudden increase in the size or intensity of a fire, while flare up can refer to a sudden increase in any kind of situation, not just a fire.

Meanings and Definitions: flame up vs flare up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Flame up

  • 1Burn brightly.

    The wood FLAMED UP in the fire.

Flare up

  • 1When trouble suddenly appears.

    The argument FLARED UP when he was rude to them.

Usage Examples: flame up, flare up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

flame up

Example

The campfire started to flame up when we added more wood.

Example

The candle flames up when the wind blows.

flare up

Example

The pain in my knee tends to flare up when it's cold outside.

Example

Her allergies often flare up during the spring season.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Flame up

blaze up

To suddenly increase in size or intensity, especially related to a fire.

Example

The campfire blazed up when they added more logs to it.

burst into flames

To suddenly catch fire and start burning.

Example

The car burst into flames after the crash.

ignite

To start burning or catch fire.

Example

The spark from the lighter ignited the gas stove.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Flare up

escalate

To increase in intensity or severity, especially related to a conflict or argument.

Example

The disagreement between the two coworkers escalated into a shouting match.

erupt

To suddenly break out or happen, especially related to a violent or emotional event.

Example

The volcano erupted and spewed ash and lava for days.

boil over

To become uncontrollable or overflow, especially related to emotions or a situation.

Example

Her frustration boiled over and she started yelling at her boss.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “flame”

Phrasal Verbs with “flare”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in flame up vs flare up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: flame up or flare up?

Both flame up and flare up are commonly used in everyday conversation, but flare up is slightly more common than flame up. This is because flare up can be used in a wider range of situations, not just related to fires.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of flame up and flare up

Both flame up and flare up are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of flame up and flare up

The tone of flame up and flare up can differ based on context. Flame up often carries a more urgent or dangerous tone when related to fires, while flare up can have a more emotional or confrontational tone when referring to a sudden increase in a situation.

flame up & flare up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Flame up

Synonyms

Antonyms

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