close to a flame

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close to a flame" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is in proximity to something dangerous or risky, often implying a potential for harm. Example: "He knew that getting involved with her was like being close to a flame; it could lead to trouble."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The endeavor dances close to a flame.

The New York Times

They can be burned if left unattended too close to a flame.

Huffington Post

They're tinderboxes, ready to ignite, often sitting dangerously close to a flame.

Vice

Don't put your paper too close to a flame, or it will light on fire.

WikiHow

When working with yeast cells, stay close to a flame at all times and minimize air exposure as much as possible!

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Then slowly he would find ways to get closer to a flame.

Huffington Post

8. Cutting the onion close to a burning flame How is it supposed to work?: The open fire (I suggest a small candle, for obvious reasons) is supposed to draw the fumes away from your retinas and into the heat.

Huffington Post

One step too close to a naked flame … Talking of which: where was the smokey-fug throughout?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A member of the tour group jokes that it may look nice, but advises not to "stand too close to a naked flame".

The Guardian - Business

③ Safely slice onions on a cutting board close to an open flame.

Huffington Post

And the way her gauzy wedding dress always gets a little too close to an open flame on stage portends her horrible end.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “close to a flame” to describe situations where proximity to a source of danger or intense activity creates a sense of risk or excitement. It can apply literally, as in physical danger, or figuratively, to describe risky behaviors or situations.

Common error

Avoid using “close to a flame” solely for literal situations involving fire. Its strength lies in its figurative use, such as describing someone who is on the verge of emotional burnout or taking significant risks in business or personal relationships.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close to a flame" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify verbs or clauses, indicating a state of proximity to something that is potentially dangerous or volatile. It can also act as an adjective, describing a noun as being near a source of fire or heat.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "close to a flame" serves as a versatile expression that can be used both literally and figuratively to describe proximity to danger or risk. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, it carries a neutral register, suitable for a variety of contexts. While not as frequent as other expressions, its evocative nature makes it a powerful tool for conveying a sense of unease or potential harm. Remember to consider the figurative implications when employing the phrase, and explore alternatives like "playing with fire" or "in danger's path" to best suit your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

playing with fire

Highlights the act of engaging in a dangerous or risky behavior.

near a fire

Simple literal alternative, focusing on physical proximity to a fire.

in danger's path

Emphasizes exposure to potential harm or risk.

in harm's way

Indicates being exposed to potential danger or injury.

skating on thin ice

Implies being in a risky situation where a mistake could have serious consequences.

courting disaster

Suggests actions that are likely to lead to negative outcomes.

on dangerous ground

Highlights the perilous nature of a situation or topic.

walking a tightrope

Figurative, suggests a precarious situation requiring careful balance.

tempting fate

Implies challenging one's luck or inviting misfortune.

on the edge

Indicates being in a critical or unstable state.

FAQs

How can “close to a flame” be used figuratively?

Figuratively, “close to a flame” describes situations or behaviors that are risky, dangerous, or intense, but not necessarily related to actual fire. It suggests being on the verge of something significant or potentially harmful.

What are some literal examples of being “close to a flame”?

Literal examples include situations where someone is physically near a fire source, such as cooking over an open fire, working with torches, or being in proximity to a wildfire.

Which phrases are similar in meaning to “close to a flame”?

Alternatives include phrases like "playing with fire", "skating on thin ice", or "courting disaster", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use “near a flame” instead of “close to a flame”?

Yes, “near a flame” is a valid and simpler alternative to “close to a flame”, focusing solely on physical proximity. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the potential danger implied by “close” or simply the nearness.