tempers are flaring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tempers are flaring" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where emotions are becoming heated or people are getting angry, often in a conflict or argument. Example: "During the debate, tempers are flaring, and it's becoming difficult to maintain a civil discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Tempers are flaring.

The New York Times

LONDON — Tempers are flaring across Europe as the economic pain deepens and more people lose their jobs.

The New York Times

Kittles disagreed: "A physical-type game where the tempers are flaring, we like that more than they do," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

As for a potentially expensive primary campaign, Mr. Rebovich said, "I'm sure tempers are flaring in Washington because of this".

The New York Times

Art for art's sake be damned: with millions at stake, territorial rows and tempers are flaring in the moneyed world of the art market and particularly behind the scenes at Christie's auction house.

Independent

"Obviously this is an extraordinary situation and tempers are flaring, but we must maintain a level of civility and decorum befitting a senator and representative of the people of New York," they said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Tempers were flaring and people were shouting.

Independent

"Tempers were flaring because it was taxes".

The New York Times

"Tempers were flaring up," he said in an interview.

The New York Times

Even so, when patrons' tempers were flaring, the staff kept theirs and were solicitous and polite.

The New York Times

They were involved in putting together a television pilot, tempers were flaring, deadlines were pending and everyone was exhausted.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tempers are flaring" to vividly describe situations where anger or frustration is openly expressed. This phrase adds impact when portraying conflict or disagreement in writing.

Common error

Avoid using "tempers are flaring" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral language like "tensions are escalating" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tempers are flaring" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating an escalation of anger or frustration within a given situation. According to Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable expression in written English. This phrase helps to vividly portray a scene where emotions are heightened.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Social Media

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tempers are flaring" is a commonly used phrase that effectively describes situations where anger and frustration are escalating. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to slightly informal contexts like news reports or general descriptions of events. When aiming for a more formal tone, alternatives such as "tensions are escalating" may be more appropriate. The phrase is frequently found in news media, vividly portraying conflict and heightened emotions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

emotions are running high

Focuses on the intensity of feelings rather than the outward expression of anger.

tensions are escalating

Highlights the increase in strain and potential for conflict.

things are getting heated

Emphasizes the rising intensity of a situation, often suggesting an argument.

arguments are erupting

Focuses on the sudden outbreak of disputes.

conflicts are intensifying

Indicates a strengthening of existing disagreements.

disagreements are sharpening

Suggests that differences of opinion are becoming more pronounced and potentially hostile.

patience is wearing thin

Highlights the dwindling tolerance levels in a tense situation.

people are losing their cool

Focuses on the individual's loss of composure.

a heated exchange is occurring

Highlights the presence of an argument or confrontational discussion.

the situation is becoming volatile

Indicates instability and the potential for sudden and dramatic changes.

FAQs

What does "tempers are flaring" mean?

It means people are becoming angry and agitated, often leading to heated arguments or conflicts.

What can I say instead of "tempers are flaring"?

You can use alternatives like "emotions are running high", "tensions are escalating", or "things are getting heated" depending on the context.

Is "tempers are flaring" a formal or informal expression?

It's generally considered a neutral to slightly informal expression, suitable for news reports and general writing but less appropriate for highly formal or academic contexts.

How to use "tempers are flaring" in a sentence?

Example: "During the negotiations, "tempers are flaring" as both sides refuse to compromise."