a blaze of flames

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a blaze of flames" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large, intense fire or a vivid display of flames, often in a dramatic or poetic context. Example: "The campfire erupted into a blaze of flames, illuminating the night sky and casting dancing shadows on the trees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Two sisters were practising basketball when the plane crashed, sending a blaze of flames roaring down their block and killing their mother and brother, who were at home.

The Guardian

Hearst wasn't there, but most of the self-styled revolutionaries who had kidnaped her died in a blaze of flames and gunfire, an apocalypse televised in living color.

Los Angeles Times

Inventive as a protest measure it may be -- however grisly -- but the only certainty in this entrenched battle is that for those who go down in a blaze of flames for their struggle, their efforts end there.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

If you have to fail at something, go down in a ball of flames; a blaze of ill-advised glory.

Huffington Post

But for six weeks or so we'll conquer the Downtown scene before we flame out in a blaze of lurid tabloid headlines and a tangle of lawsuits.

The New York Times

If looks could kill, Teresa would have burst into flames the second she entered, going down in a blaze of burnt hair extensions and melted acrylic.

Huffington Post

Although not so dramatic as bursting into flames, the discount seems a much safer way for the 5300/190 series to go out in a blaze of glory.

The New York Times - Tech

It ended in a blaze of anonymity.

Independent

He was one of a dozen firefighters positioned along the dirt road in a remote patch of forest, which fire engines and bulldozers used to access the front lines of the blaze, a wall of flames several stories tall and moving north above a valley filled with vineyards and olive groves.

The New York Times

The mixture erupts in a blaze, and rivulets of flame roll over the edge of the glass and onto the bar, all part of what Mr. Trummer calls his "little fire show".

The New York Times - Style

A blazing blue-flame "fly trapper" on the floor helps to keep the pests away.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a blaze of flames" to create vivid imagery and emphasize the intensity and scale of a fire or burning event.

Common error

While evocative, overuse of "a blaze of flames" can diminish its impact. Vary your descriptions of fire with more nuanced and specific language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a blaze of flames" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a descriptive element within a sentence. It depicts a scene or event involving intense fire, consistent with Ludwig's indication that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a blaze of flames" is a grammatically sound noun phrase primarily used to create a vivid and intense image of fire, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its usage is more common in news and media contexts. Alternatives like "a fiery inferno" or "a wall of fire" can offer nuanced descriptions, although the overall frequency of the phrase remains relatively rare. Writers should be mindful of potential overuse to maintain the impact of their descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fiery inferno

Changes the visual metaphor to a more dramatic and intense image of fire.

an intense conflagration

Emphasizes the scale and destructiveness of the fire.

a raging inferno

Focuses on the uncontrolled and violent nature of the fire.

a wall of fire

Describes the fire's appearance as an insurmountable barrier.

a sea of fire

Presents a vast, overwhelming expanse of flames.

a fiery spectacle

Highlights the visual impact and impressiveness of the fire.

an inferno of fire

Emphasizes the destructive capacity of the fire.

a roaring firestorm

Suggests a violent and chaotic fire event.

a burning inferno

Highlights the ongoing combustion and intensity of the fire.

an explosion of fire

Focuses on the sudden and forceful ignition of the fire.

FAQs

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

You can use "a blaze of flames" to describe a large, intense fire. For example, "The explosion erupted in "a blaze of flames", engulfing the building."

What's a more descriptive alternative to "a blaze of flames"?

Consider using alternatives such as "a fiery inferno", "a raging inferno", or "a wall of fire" to offer greater detail about the fire's characteristics.

Is "a blaze of flames" too cliché?

While "a blaze of flames" is a recognized phrase, overuse can lead to it sounding cliché. To avoid this, try incorporating more specific details about the fire's appearance, behavior, or impact.

Can "a blaze of flames" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "a blaze of flames" can be used metaphorically to describe intense emotions or situations. However, ensure the context aligns with the imagery of a large, uncontrolled fire. A better options could be "a fiery passion".