put out the flame

USAGE SUMMARY

"put out the flame" is a valid phrase in written English.
It is used to describe extinguishing a flame. For example, "When I was finished with the candle, I put out the flame."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

At one point, half a dozen demonstrators tried to put out the flame before police stopped them.

The Guardian

"I just hope I don't trip and fall, and put out the flame," says Mr. Gong, ever the comedian.

The New York Times

The match caused a flash of fire at the Gaseteria station at 3804 Boston Road, but Mr. Galvan put out the flame with an extinguisher, the police said.

The New York Times

"Their attempts to put out the flame that the leaked information caused will fail in allowing them to continue their game of ambiguity because they have gotten really close to the volcanic crater," the editorial said.

The New York Times

They sat silently as the fire eater, his eyes wide, his cheeks still puffed, rushed to help the volunteers put out the flame with a plastic green watering can.

The New York Times - Travel

Ellie Simmonds and Jonnie Peacock were as much of a draw as musical guests Jay-Z and Rihanna when they stepped forward to finally put out the flame that has burned brightly throughout both Games.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Who can put out the flames?

The New York Times

"He must put out the flames of violence permanently.

The New York Times

While others attempt to put out the flames, Pitt has a bellows to encourage the flames.

Princeton University

They pleaded for calm but instead protesters threw stones as the officers put out the flames.

The Guardian

The rocks still radiate heat even though a fortuitous cloudburst put out the flames weeks before.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put out the flame" when referring to the literal act of extinguishing a fire or a flame. It can also be used metaphorically to describe stopping something from progressing or escalating, such as "put out the flame" of conflict.

Common error

Avoid using "put out the flame" in overly formal or technical contexts where more precise or sophisticated language is expected. Overusing the metaphor can weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

"Put out the flame" functions as a phrasal verb, typically indicating the action of extinguishing a literal flame. According to Ludwig AI, it can also be used metaphorically to describe stopping or suppressing something, aligning with examples found across varied sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "put out the flame" is a common phrasal verb used to describe the act of extinguishing a fire or, metaphorically, suppressing something before it escalates. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and sees frequent use in news and media, with supporting examples from sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. While its usage is broad, it's important to consider the context, avoiding overuse in highly formal or technical settings where a more precise term might be more appropriate. Remember that alternatives like "extinguish the flame" or "suppress the flame" can provide nuanced shades of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extinguish the flame

More formal synonym, emphasizes the act of stopping the burning.

put an end to the flame

A more verbose way of expressing the same idea, adding emphasis.

stop the flame from burning

Focuses on preventing the continuation of the fire.

quench the flame

Implies satisfying or suppressing something, often used figuratively.

suppress the flame

More formal, implying control and prevention of further spread.

douse the flame

Suggests a forceful extinguishing, often with liquid.

extinguish the fire

Broader term, referring to the fire in general rather than just the flame.

smother the flame

Indicates covering the flame to stop it, can also be used metaphorically.

control the fire

Focuses on managing and containing the fire, not necessarily extinguishing it completely.

snuff out the flame

Implies a quick and decisive end to the burning.

FAQs

How can the phrase "put out the flame" be used metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "put out the flame" can refer to suppressing something, ending a conflict, or quelling a problem before it escalates. For instance, you might say someone is trying to "put out the flame" of controversy by addressing concerns promptly.

What are some synonyms for "put out the flame"?

Alternatives include "extinguish the flame", "quench the flame", or "suppress the flame", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "put out the fire" instead of "put out the flame"?

Yes, "put out the fire" is a correct and more general statement. "Put out the flame" specifically refers to extinguishing the visible flame, while "put out the fire" implies stopping the entire conflagration.

Can "put out the flame" be used in business contexts?

Yes, but sparingly. In business, it would typically be used metaphorically to describe resolving a crisis or preventing a problem from escalating. For example, a manager might try to "put out the flame" of employee dissatisfaction.