inflame tensions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inflame tensions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing actions or statements that exacerbate or intensify existing conflicts or disagreements. Example: "The politician's remarks were seen as an attempt to inflame tensions between the two communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These only inflame tensions and must stop".

The Guardian

Further Marbles loans will inflame tensions with Athens.

Independent

Others worry that prosecutions will inflame tensions instead.

The New York Times

But their presence at times seemed only to inflame tensions.

The New York Times

(On the contrary, they often seem to inflame tensions).

The New Yorker

Opposition leaders said such action would inflame tensions.

The Washington Post

But sending weapons may do more to inflame tensions than calm them.

The Economist

The move will further inflame tensions between ministers and the British Medical Association that represents doctors.

Independent

Brahmi's funeral, initially planned for today, was postponed until Saturday for fear it could inflame tensions.

Independent

That's likely to further inflame tensions within Opec, and keep pressure on the oil price.

The Guardian - Business

Or would such unfettered access inflame tensions over issues that should be put to rest?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "inflame tensions", ensure the context clearly identifies the parties or groups between whom the tensions exist. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "inflame tensions" excessively in sensationalist writing. Overuse can diminish the phrase's impact and make your writing seem biased or overly dramatic. Opt for more neutral language when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inflame tensions" functions as a verb phrase, where "inflame" acts as a transitive verb taking "tensions" as its direct object. It describes the action of intensifying negative feelings or conflicts, as Ludwig AI confirms with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "inflame tensions" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, predominantly found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage, indicating that it is a correct and appropriate choice for describing situations where conflicts or negative emotions are being intensified. While alternatives such as "exacerbate tensions" or "heighten tensions" exist, "inflame tensions" offers a vivid and impactful way to convey the idea of escalating conflict. When using this phrase, clarity and context are key to ensuring effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exacerbate tensions

Replaces "inflame" with "exacerbate", indicating a worsening of existing tensions.

heighten tensions

Replaces "inflame" with "heighten", suggesting an increase in the intensity of tensions.

fuel tensions

Uses "fuel" instead of "inflame", portraying tensions as being fed or sustained.

stoke tensions

Employs "stoke" in place of "inflame", indicating an active fanning of the flames of tension.

aggravate tensions

Substitutes "inflame" with "aggravate", implying a worsening of tensions.

intensify tensions

Replaces "inflame" with "intensify", emphasizing the strengthening of tensions.

escalate tensions

Uses "escalate" instead of "inflame", suggesting a rise in the level of tension.

worsen tensions

Replaces "inflame" with "worsen", indicating a decline in the state of tensions.

provoke tensions

Substitutes "inflame" with "provoke", implying an instigation of tensions.

foment tensions

Uses "foment" in place of "inflame", suggesting the deliberate stirring up of tensions.

FAQs

How can I use "inflame tensions" in a sentence?

You can use "inflame tensions" to describe actions or words that worsen existing conflicts or disagreements. For example, "The politician's speech threatened to inflame tensions between the two countries."

What are some alternatives to saying "inflame tensions"?

You can use alternatives such as "exacerbate tensions", "heighten tensions", or "fuel tensions" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "inflame tensions" or "escalate tensions"?

"Inflame tensions" suggests worsening an existing situation, while "escalate tensions" indicates a rise in the level of conflict. The best choice depends on the specific context you're describing.

What situations typically "inflame tensions"?

Situations like political disputes, social unrest, and international conflicts commonly "inflame tensions". Any event or action that increases animosity or disagreement can be said to "inflame tensions".