burst of fire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "burst of fire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden and intense release of flames or gunfire, often in a dramatic or action-oriented context. Example: "The soldiers took cover as a burst of fire erupted from the enemy's position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Matt and my gunner were both hit by the same burst of fire from the sniper.

The New York Times

Then came a burst of fire hitting Ali Yazbek in the neck.

Independent

A burst of fire from a machine gun, then another and another.

The New York Times

Suddenly, there was a burst of fire, and Mr. Simonov was mowed down.

The New York Times

After an initial burst of fire they dragged Bhatti's driver from the vehicle, then continued firing through a side window.

The Guardian

Not that there's anything wrong with a dove, a plume of smoke or a burst of fire.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

There was a burst of firing ahead and then a barrage of rockets fired out into the thick bush beside the road.

BBC

In addition, immediate short-lived burst of firing by meningeal nociceptors was observed after single CSD and as suggested by the authors this immediate short-lived burst of firing is probably mediated by axonal collaterals that extended from the dura into the pia [1].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

This was particularly evident as an off-response; wherein at the end of the touch episode, a burst of firing was observed in the PSTHs indicating a possible release from inhibition.

eLife

Ozanne said three separate bursts of fire occurred.

The Guardian

It began with two rapid bursts of fire.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene, use "burst of fire" to create a vivid and impactful image of sudden violence or intense action.

Common error

Avoid using "burst of fire" metaphorically when describing non-violent situations. Overusing it in figurative contexts can dilute its impact and make your writing sound cliché. Use alternatives like "outbreak" or "surge" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "burst of fire" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a sudden and intense release of flames or gunfire. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

23%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "burst of fire" is a common noun phrase used to describe a sudden and intense release of flames or gunfire. It's grammatically correct and most frequently found in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English. While versatile, overuse in figurative contexts should be avoided. Related phrases like "outbreak of gunfire" or "volley of shots" can provide alternative ways to express similar concepts with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outbreak of gunfire

Emphasizes the sudden and uncontrolled start of gunfire, similar to an epidemic.

volley of shots

Implies a simultaneous discharge of multiple firearms.

spate of shooting

Highlights a series of shooting incidents occurring in quick succession.

fusillade of bullets

Conveys an image of a rapid and continuous stream of bullets.

barrage of fire

Suggests a concentrated and overwhelming outpouring of fire.

hail of bullets

Emphasizes the high quantity and intensity of the bullets, likening it to a hailstorm.

rapid gunfire

Focuses on the speed and intensity of the gunfire.

sudden blaze

Shifts the focus to fire, indicating an abrupt and intense fire.

flurry of shots

Implies a brief and energetic burst of gunfire.

intense shooting

Highlights the high level of activity and force associated with the shooting.

FAQs

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

You can use "burst of fire" to describe a sudden and intense release of gunfire, as in, "The soldiers took cover after a "burst of fire" erupted from the building".

What are some alternatives to "burst of fire"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "outbreak of gunfire", "volley of shots", or "spate of shooting".

Is it correct to say "burst of fire" or "burst of gunfire"?

Both "burst of fire" and "burst of gunfire" are correct and commonly used. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "burst of fire" and "hail of bullets"?

"Burst of fire" refers to a short, intense discharge of shots. "Hail of bullets" emphasizes the large quantity and overwhelming nature of the projectiles.