a blaze

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a blaze" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a fire or a bright, intense light, often in a metaphorical sense as well. Example: "The campfire roared to life, sending a blaze of warmth into the chilly night air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It ended in a blaze of anonymity.

Independent

Cutumba was a blaze of brightness.

The New York Times

I felt a blaze of happiness.

The New York Times

"We left in a blaze of glory".

The Guardian

My mouth a blaze of touch.

The New Yorker

Most precious gem, A blaze on the brow of eternity!

The New Yorker

The sunset is a blaze of purple and gold.

Independent

The final movement unfolded in a blaze of color.

The New York Times - Arts

I woke up in a blaze of white sun.

The New Yorker

A book of dark secrets, it opens with a blaze.

The Guardian

Last week, Central Park was a blaze of red.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context carefully. While "a blaze" can be used metaphorically, ensure the imagery aligns with your overall tone and subject matter to avoid jarring contrasts.

Common error

Avoid using "a blaze" excessively in formal or technical writing where precise and neutral language is preferred. Opt for more direct and less figurative terms like "fire", "outbreak", or "flare-up" to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a blaze" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used, reinforcing its noun-like properties across numerous contexts. For instance, "Firefighters are tackling a blaze at a building."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a blaze" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase to describe intense fires, lights, or emotions. According to Ludwig AI, it is widely accepted in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts, adding vividness to descriptions. While versatile, it should be used judiciously in formal writing. Related phrases include ""a conflagration"" and ""a fire"", offering varying degrees of intensity and formality. Using "a blaze" effectively enhances the impact of your writing, especially when conveying powerful imagery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a conflagration

Refers specifically to a large and destructive fire; more formal and intense.

an inferno

Similar to "a conflagration" but even stronger in intensity, implying hellish conditions.

a fire

A more general term for combustion or burning, less vivid than "a blaze".

a flame

Refers to the visible part of a fire; less encompassing than "a blaze".

a burst of light

Focuses on the sudden emission of light, rather than the fire itself.

a flash

Emphasizes the brief and sudden nature of light or fire.

an outburst

Shifts the meaning to a sudden release of emotion or energy, metaphorically like a fire.

a surge

Highlights a sudden increase or rush, applicable to emotions or literal flames.

a torrent

Implies an overwhelming flow or outpouring, suitable for intense feelings or powerful flames.

a wave

Suggests a sweeping movement or sensation, applicable to emotions or intense light.

FAQs

How can I use "a blaze" in a sentence?

You can use "a blaze" to describe a large, intense fire, like "The forest was consumed by "a blaze"". It can also be used metaphorically to describe something intense, like "She felt "a blaze" of anger".

What are some synonyms for "a blaze"?

Some synonyms for "a blaze" include "a fire", "a conflagration", "an inferno", or "a flame". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of intensity.

Is it correct to use "a blaze of glory"?

Yes, "a blaze of glory" is an idiomatic expression that means a spectacular or triumphant end, often involving sacrifice or risk. For example, "The hero went out in "a blaze of glory"".

What's the difference between "a fire" and "a blaze"?

"A fire" is a general term for combustion, while ""a blaze"" suggests a larger, more intense, and often uncontrolled fire. "A blaze" often carries a connotation of destructiveness or overwhelming force.