Wall of fire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Wall of fire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a literal or metaphorical barrier made of fire, often in a dramatic or intense context. Example: "The firefighters struggled to contain the wall of fire that threatened to engulf the entire forest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It was a wall of fire".

The New York Times

The race will end with a wall of fire.

The New York Times

Hubbard called this level the Wall of Fire.

The New Yorker

The wall of fire that burnt Marysville that night was 330ft high.

The Guardian

Firefighters had difficulty seeing through what he called "a wall of fire".

The New York Times

At the end, he rides an IRL motorcycle through a wall of fire.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In the catalog Mr. Newkirk calls it a "wall of fire".

The New York Times - Arts

"He who conquers the wall of fire or the wall of voices conquers the body".

The New York Times

Next on Mr. Kleanthis's list: Putting a wall of fire behind the gurgling rock whirlpool.

The New York Times - Travel

"I can see a wall of fire," said a witness camping in the area.

The New York Times

Optiver's offices feature an internal wall of 30 panels nicknamed the "Wall of Fire" that lights up every minute.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "wall of fire", consider the context and ensure it accurately conveys the scale and intensity of the fire being described. Use it to create a vivid and dramatic image for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "wall of fire" in situations where the fire is small or insignificant. The phrase is most effective when describing large, intense blazes or metaphorical barriers that are difficult to overcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wall of fire" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence, describing a literal or metaphorical barrier composed of intense flames. Ludwig provides several examples illustrating its use in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Academia

10%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wall of fire" is a commonly used noun phrase, as verified by Ludwig, that describes a literal or metaphorical barrier composed of intense flames. It functions to create a vivid and dramatic image and is frequently found in news and media reports, as well as academic and literary contexts. While generally neutral in register, its impact is heightened when used to accurately depict the scale and intensity of a fire or a formidable obstacle. Alternatives like "inferno" or "firestorm" can be considered depending on the specific context and desired effect. Avoid overuse in mundane situations to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Firestorm

Implies a particularly intense and widespread fire, often with its own localized weather system.

Raging fire

Highlights the uncontrolled and destructive nature of the fire.

Blazing inferno

This emphasizes the intensity and scope of the fire.

Sea of flames

Emphasizes the vastness and overwhelming nature of the fire.

Burning inferno

Reinforces the idea of a large, uncontrolled, and highly destructive fire.

Inferno

A large and destructive fire; can replace "wall of fire" in some contexts to emphasize the scale and intensity of the blaze.

Conflagration

A large destructive fire, often used in a more formal or literary context.

Flame barrier

Focuses on the aspect of the fire acting as an obstacle or impediment.

Fiery blockade

Describes the fire as an obstruction, preventing movement or access.

Ablaze

Describes something that is burning fiercely, similar to being engulfed by a "wall of fire".

FAQs

How can I use "wall of fire" in a sentence?

You can use "wall of fire" to describe a literal fire, as in, "The firefighters struggled against the "wall of fire" advancing towards the town", or metaphorically, as in, "He faced a "wall of fire" of criticism after his controversial statement".

What are some alternatives to "wall of fire"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "inferno", "raging fire", or "firestorm" to describe a large and intense fire. For a metaphorical barrier, consider "fiery blockade".

Is "wall of fire" a literal or figurative expression?

"Wall of fire" can be used both literally to describe a large, intense fire and figuratively to represent an overwhelming obstacle or challenge. The meaning depends on the context in which it's used.

What is the difference between "wall of fire" and "firestorm"?

While both terms describe intense fires, ""wall of fire"" typically refers to a linear or advancing front of flames, whereas "firestorm" implies a more widespread and chaotic fire, often generating its own wind system.