in the fire

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the fire" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is physically located inside a fire or surrounded by flames. For example: - The firefighters bravely went into the burning building, risking their lives to rescue those trapped in the fire. - The charred remains of the house stood in stark contrast to the lush green trees surrounding it, evidence of the destructive power of the fire. - She held her hands up to the fire to warm them and watched as the logs crackled and sparked in the fire. - As he sat by the fireplace, he couldn't help but feel a sense of calm and peace engulf him in the warmth of the fire.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He died in the fire.

The New Yorker

She died in the fire.

The New York Times

I've been in the fire.

The New York Times - Sports

Eight servicemen died in the fire.

The New York Times

His wife has died in the fire.

Independent

We want to be in the fire.

The New York Times - Sports

The stairwell collapsed in the fire.

The New York Times

Sykes died in the fire.

The Guardian

There were no injuries in the fire.

The New York Times

Was there a message in the fire?

The New York Times

She threw him in the fire.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the fire" to describe the literal location of something within flames or a fire. When using it metaphorically, ensure the context clearly relates to intense pressure, scrutiny, or difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "in the fire" as a general intensifier. While it can describe intense situations, make sure the context justifies the association with actual fire or burning. Overuse can dilute the impact and make your writing seem melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the fire" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb by indicating location or state. Ludwig AI's analysis shows its consistent use across various contexts to denote physical presence within flames or metaphorical involvement in intense situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

23%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the fire" is a common prepositional phrase that describes the location of something directly within a fire, or metaphorically, in a situation of intense pressure. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science. While generally neutral in register, writers should ensure metaphorical uses are appropriate and avoid overuse to maintain impact. When needing a similar phrase, consider "amidst the flames", "within the blaze" or "under fire" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Using these insights, you can effectively incorporate "in the fire" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

amidst the flames

Replaces 'in the fire' with a more evocative and literary expression.

within the blaze

Offers a more intense and dramatic alternative, emphasizing the fire's ferocity.

surrounded by flames

Describes the physical state of being encircled by fire.

consumed by fire

Shifts the focus to the destructive aspect of the fire, implying total engulfment.

engulfed in flames

Similar to 'consumed by fire', but emphasizes the visual image of flames surrounding something.

in the heart of the fire

Adds a sense of location and intensity, suggesting a central point within the fire.

facing the fire

Focuses on confrontation with a fire, suggesting courage or adversity.

under fire

Figuratively implies being under intense scrutiny or attack, not necessarily literal fire.

subjected to fire

Indicates exposure or testing by fire, often in a technical or experimental context.

in a fiery situation

Broadens the scope to include any intense or dangerous situation, not just literal fires.

FAQs

How can I use "in the fire" in a sentence?

You can use "in the fire" to describe something physically present within flames, as in "The documents were destroyed in the fire". Alternatively, you can use it metaphorically to describe an intense situation.

What are some alternatives to using "in the fire"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives like "amidst the flames", "within the blaze", or "under fire".

Is there a difference between "in the fire" and "on fire"?

"In the fire" indicates something is located within the flames, whereas "on fire" describes something that is actively burning. For example, "The pot was in the fire" versus "The wood was on fire".

When is it appropriate to use "in the fire" metaphorically?

It's appropriate to use "in the fire" metaphorically when describing situations involving intense pressure, scrutiny, or testing, similar to being "under pressure".