What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
flammable
Example
The gasoline is highly flammable and should be stored in a safe place. [flammable: adjective]
Example
The flammable liquid caught fire as soon as it was exposed to the spark. [flammable: noun]
combustible
Example
The wood is combustible and should be kept away from open flames. [combustible: adjective]
Example
The mixture of chemicals is highly combustible and requires special handling. [combustible: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Flammable and combustible are both commonly used in safety regulations and warning labels. However, flammable is more commonly used in everyday language than combustible.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between flammable and combustible?
Both flammable and combustible are technical terms that are commonly used in safety regulations and warning labels. However, flammable is more commonly used in informal contexts, while combustible is more commonly used in formal contexts.
