What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wigwag
Example
The air traffic controller used a wigwag to signal the pilot to take off. [wigwag: noun]
Example
The soldier wigwagged the flag to communicate with his unit. [wigwag: verb]
flare
Example
The fireworks display included flares that lit up the night sky. [flare: noun]
Example
The rescue team used flares to signal for help. [flare: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Flare is more commonly used than wigwag in everyday language. Flare is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while wigwag is less common and more specialized to certain fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wigwag and flare?
While wigwag is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, flare can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.