inflaming this issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inflaming this issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or topic that is becoming more heated or contentious, often due to provocation or heightened emotions. Example: "The politician's remarks are only inflaming this issue further, making it harder to reach a resolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

He blamed politicians for inflaming the issue.

The New York Times

This will inflame the issue.The apology reflects an ideological war that has been waged for over two decades.

The Economist

"We believe this inflames the issues we have in coming to a European solution and the next step is for Premiership Rugby to take advice to see if this action represents a fundamental breach in the contract between ERC and its clubs," said PRL in a statement.

BBC

(Given the way Republicans feel about him, Obama might just inflame the issue further if he spoke out).

The New Yorker

That move is certain to inflame the issue, and even some of his allies worry it would kill what little chance remains for comprehensive legislation.

The Washington Post

But he inflamed the issue of his relationship with Steinbrenner in an interview with Fox News Channel, saying that Steinbrenner should trust him more and suggesting that his job status had become a distraction in the clubhouse.

The New York Times - Sports

A controversial California ban on the product has only inflamed the issue.

Huffington Post

José Miguel Carrera and his brothers, whose desire for complete independence was equaled if not surpassed by their personal ambition, inflamed the issues.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That has raised suspicions that politicians are inflaming the race issue; a high-profile case like this gives career-boosting opportunities.

The Guardian

This issue inflames Republicans, but will Mr Brown keep talking about it after the primary?

The Economist

Former diplomats said Mr. Trump's action was unnecessary and would inflame an issue that had been largely dormant.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "inflaming this issue" when you want to emphasize that something is making an existing problem or conflict more intense, especially by adding emotional fuel. Consider the context to ensure this heightened intensity is the intended effect.

Common error

Avoid using "inflaming this issue" in situations where a neutral or objective description is needed. The phrase carries a connotation of negative escalation and is better suited for contexts involving conflict or controversy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inflaming this issue" functions as a verb phrase where "inflaming" is a present participle acting as a verb, and "this issue" is the object. It describes the action of making a particular problem or conflict more intense or heated. The examples provided by Ludwig confirm its usage in describing escalating situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "inflaming this issue" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes the act of making a problem or conflict more intense, often through emotional provocation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While most commonly found in news and media contexts, it's essential to use this phrase judiciously, as it carries a connotation of negative escalation. Alternatives like "exacerbating this issue" or "aggravating this issue" might be more suitable for neutral or formal writing. Remember to consider the specific context and intended tone when deciding whether to use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exacerbating this issue

Replaces "inflaming" with a more clinical term, focusing on worsening the issue rather than inciting emotions.

aggravating this issue

Similar to "exacerbating", but suggests making the issue more troublesome or irritating.

worsening this problem

Uses a broader term "problem" instead of "issue" and focuses on the decline in condition.

intensifying this dispute

Emphasizes the escalation of a conflict or disagreement.

fanning the flames of this issue

Uses a metaphorical expression to describe the act of making the issue more heated or controversial.

heightening tensions surrounding this issue

Focuses on increasing the level of stress and unease related to the issue.

stirring up trouble regarding this issue

Implies deliberately causing problems or conflict.

fuelling the controversy of this issue

Highlights the act of adding substance to an existing dispute or public debate.

making this issue more contentious

Focuses on the increase in argument and debate around the subject.

blowing this issue out of proportion

Suggests exaggerating the significance of the issue.

FAQs

How can I use "inflaming this issue" in a sentence?

You can use "inflaming this issue" to describe actions or words that intensify an existing problem or conflict. For example, "The politician's comments are "inflaming this issue" and making it harder to find a solution".

What's a less emotionally charged alternative to "inflaming this issue"?

If you want to avoid the negative connotation of "inflaming this issue", consider using alternatives like "exacerbating this issue" or "aggravating this issue", which focus on worsening the problem without necessarily implying emotional arousal.

Is it appropriate to use "inflaming this issue" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "inflaming this issue" is often used in news or opinion pieces. In formal or academic writing, consider using more neutral alternatives like "intensifying this dispute" or "worsening this problem" to maintain objectivity.

What is the difference between "inflaming this issue" and "addressing this issue"?

"Inflaming this issue" implies making the problem worse or more contentious, while "addressing this issue" means taking steps to solve or resolve it. They are opposite in their effect and intention.