What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conflagration
Example
The city was devastated by a conflagration that destroyed many buildings. [conflagration: noun]
Example
The political situation in the country has turned into a conflagration that threatens to escalate into a full-blown war. [conflagration: noun]
inferno
Example
The building was engulfed in an inferno that could be seen for miles. [inferno: noun]
Example
The desert can be an inferno during the day, with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. [inferno: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Conflagration is less common than inferno in everyday language, but it is still used in formal contexts such as news reports or historical accounts of fires. Inferno is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as in literature or movies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conflagration and inferno?
Conflagration is more formal and versatile, making it suitable for use in various contexts, including academic writing, news reports, or historical accounts. On the other hand, inferno is more informal and dramatic, making it suitable for use in creative writing, literature, or movies.