a line of flames

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a line of flames" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a visual scene involving flames arranged in a linear formation, often in a dramatic or vivid context. Example: "The fire dancers moved gracefully, creating a mesmerizing display of a line of flames that captivated the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Using fuel cannisters with long nozzles, they had established a line of flames some two feet high and intensely hot.

The New Yorker

As darkness falls, a line of flames weaves towards us along the vie cave across the valley.

The Guardian - Travel

He was then seen in a cage at the same site, with a line of flames, ignited by an Isis militant, creeping towards the cage, then engulfing him.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

He said their strategy was to contain the burning by setting a line of fire that would divert the flames to a man-made border they had dug with hand tools and bulldozers.

The New York Times

A line of low flames gives a hint of hell as well as of domestic warmth.

The Guardian

Before us: a mountain on which a line of leaping flames (a controlled burning of farmland, most likely) snaked up the side, the only source of illumination beside the stars and our headlights.

The New York Times - Travel

The set is almost blank: a background painted to look like a wall of concrete, virtually no furniture; the only brightness or movement is a low line of flames that springs up now and then to create a fireplace.

The New Yorker

The horizon is marked with an almost calligraphic line of flames, and the color of the smoke-filled sky matches that of the ground -- a scorched-earth Color Field painting on the one hand, a record of air pollution on the other.

The New York Times - Arts

Cassegrain receiving optics coupled to a high-performance spectroscopic unit allowed local, temporally resolved measurements of intensity of chemiluminescence in flat flames, which were compared with measurements along a line of sight obtained from flame spectra.

Combustion and Flame

On Wednesday night, the Thomas fire raced westward along mountains north of town, forming an eerie bright orange line of flames several miles long.

Los Angeles Times

Rip of blue flame steadying to a line of unleashed orange.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a controlled burn or a defensive firefighting tactic, use "a line of flames" to accurately depict the deliberate creation of a firebreak.

Common error

Avoid using "a line of flames" as a generic metaphor for intensity or passion. Opt for more specific imagery that reflects the intended meaning, such as "a burning desire" or "intense scrutiny".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a line of flames" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It paints a visual picture, representing fire arranged in a linear formation as highlighted by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a line of flames" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase, especially within News & Media and Science contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and practical applicability for illustrative purposes. While versatile, it's important to avoid overusing it metaphorically. When seeking alternatives, "a row of flames" or "a streak of fire" offer similar imagery. This phrase serves a key role in painting vivid pictures, predominantly when describing fire-related scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a row of flames

Replaces "line" with "row", emphasizing the sequential arrangement of the flames.

a streak of fire

Uses "streak" and "fire" to convey a similar image of a linear fiery element, focusing on speed and intensity.

a ribbon of fire

Substitutes "line" with "ribbon" to provide a sense of continuous, flowing flames.

a string of flames

Replaces "line" with "string", suggesting a series of connected flames.

a band of fire

Uses "band" instead of "line" to indicate a wider, more defined area of fire.

a train of fire

Suggests a procession of fire, where flames follow one another in a linear fashion.

a chain of flames

Emphasizes the interconnected nature of the flames, forming a sequence.

a fiery array

Offers a broader view, where flames are organized in a visually striking, linear display.

a parade of flames

Presents a spectacle of flames, suggesting a deliberate and impressive display.

an edge of fire

Highlights a boundary or border formed by flames, focusing on the delimiting aspect.

FAQs

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

You can use "a line of flames" to describe a visual scene, such as "The setting sun cast a beautiful "a line of flames" across the horizon" or "The firefighters created "a line of flames" to control the wildfire".

What phrases are similar to "a line of flames"?

Similar phrases include "a row of flames", "a streak of fire", or "a ribbon of fire" depending on the specific imagery you want to evoke.

Is it appropriate to use "a line of flames" in a formal setting?

Yes, "a line of flames" is appropriate in formal settings when accurately describing a scene or event involving fire. However, be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in abstract or metaphorical senses.

What's the difference between "a line of flames" and "a wall of flames"?

"A line of flames" suggests a linear formation, while "a wall of flames" implies a broader, more vertical and imposing fire front.