What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chimney
Example
The chimney on top of the house was tall and made of bricks. [chimney: noun]
Example
The smoke from the fireplace rose up the chimney and disappeared into the sky. [chimney: noun]
flue
Example
The flue of the chimney was clogged, causing the smoke to fill the room. [flue: noun]
Example
Make sure to open the flue before starting a fire in the fireplace. [flue: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chimney is more commonly used than flue in everyday language. Chimney is a familiar term that people associate with traditional houses and fireplaces, while flue is more commonly used in technical or specialized contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between chimney and flue?
While chimney is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, flue is more technical and tends to be used in more formal or specialized settings.
