What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
flashing
Example
The lightning was flashing across the sky all night. [flashing: verb]
Example
The photographer used a flash to capture the perfect shot. [flash: noun]
flickering
Example
The candlelight was flickering in the dark room. [flickering: verb]
Example
The old lamp was flickering, indicating that it needed a new bulb. [flicker: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Flashing is more commonly used than flickering in everyday language. Flashing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while flickering is less common and often used in specific situations such as describing a candle flame or a faulty light bulb.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between flashing and flickering?
Both flashing and flickering can be used in formal and informal contexts, but flashing may be more commonly used in technical or scientific settings due to its association with phenomena such as lightning or photography.