What are the definitions of “flame out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fail.
The company FLAMED OUT in the recession.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “flame out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb flame out is to fail, especially in a sudden or spectacular manner. It is often used to describe the failure of a project, business, or career.
What are the different verb forms of “flame out”?
| Root Verb | flame out |
| Third Person Singular Present | flames out |
| Present Participle | flaming out |
| Simple Past | flamed out |
| Past Participle | flamed out |
Example
The new restaurant flamed out after only six months.
Example
The startup flames out due to lack of funding.
Example
The politician's career is flaming out after the scandal.
Example
The band flamed out after their first album.
Example
The project had flamed out before it even began.
What kind of phrasal verb is “flame out”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“flame out” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The company flamed out in the recession.
Example
Her acting career flamed out after a series of bad movies.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“flame out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The company flamed out in the recession.
Example
Her acting career flamed out after a series of bad movies.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “flame out”?
Flame out* in technology
Refers to a sudden failure or malfunction of a device or system.
Example
The computer flamed out during the presentation, causing embarrassment.
Good things to know
Does “flame out” have an informal or formal tone?
Flame out is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings.
