the flue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the flue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a duct or passage for smoke in a chimney or stove. Example: "The technician inspected the flue to ensure it was clear of any blockages before lighting the fire."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Even if you have the flue closed".

The New York Times

The flue is barely six inches wide.

The New Yorker

I found that the flue pipe had a layer of soot that partially blocked the flue.

The New York Times

Maybe we had put too many bends in the flue.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The flue gas is then 'washed' again before being vented.

The Guardian

REETZ: A professional will drop a camera down the flue.

The New York Times - Magazine

Stamped below the flue: M. The case is stamped M.H.

Yale University

Basically, Mr. Esposito said, the vent from the water heater must enter the flue somewhere above the point at which the furnace vent enters the flue.

The New York Times

Fixing the stove and the flue was supposed to be the cherry on the cake.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I went down to shut the flue and quiet the merry din of victory.

The New York Times

That means it can work effectively with the flue gases from natural gas plants.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing home maintenance or repairs, specify "the flue" to clearly indicate the internal duct of a chimney or exhaust system. This helps avoid confusion with the overall chimney structure.

Common error

Avoid using "the flue" interchangeably with "the chimney". While related, "the flue" refers specifically to the internal passage, while "the chimney" is the entire structure. For instance, say "inspect the flue for blockages" instead of "inspect the chimney for blockages" if you're only concerned with the duct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the flue" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig provides examples showcasing its use in describing parts of a chimney and their maintenance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

22%

Science

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the flue" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase referring to the internal passage of a chimney or ventilation system. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. It's essential to use the term accurately, distinguishing it from the entire chimney structure. Using alternatives like "chimney duct" can provide clearer descriptions in specific contexts. Pay attention to the function of "the flue" in different writing scenarios, and remember to inspect it regularly for safety and efficiency. According to Ludwig, this phrase is widely used and understood in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the chimney duct

Replaces "flue" with a more descriptive term, emphasizing the duct aspect of a chimney.

the smoke passage

Focuses on the function of the flue as a passage for smoke.

the vent pipe

Highlights the venting function, suitable for systems where gases are expelled.

the chimney vent

Combines "chimney" and "vent" to describe the flue's purpose.

the exhaust duct

Emphasizes the exhaust function, suitable for industrial or mechanical contexts.

the furnace vent

Specifically refers to the vent of a furnace, indicating where exhaust exits.

the chimney shaft

Describes the physical structure of the chimney, similar to the flue's path.

the ventilation duct

Broader term for a duct used for ventilation purposes.

the stack

A more general term for a chimney or vertical exhaust duct.

the exhaust vent

Focuses on the purpose of exhausting gases or fumes.

FAQs

How is "the flue" used in a sentence?

"The flue" is used to refer to a duct or passage for smoke in a chimney or stove, for example: "The technician inspected "the flue" to ensure it was clear of any blockages before lighting the fire."

What's the difference between "the flue" and "the chimney"?

"The flue" is the internal passage or duct within a chimney, whereas "the chimney" is the entire structure that contains the "the flue".

What are some common problems associated with "the flue"?

Common issues include blockages from creosote buildup, cracks in the liner, and improper venting. Regular inspections are essential to maintaining a safe and efficient "the flue".

When should I have "the flue" inspected?

It is recommended to have "the flue" inspected annually, especially before the start of the heating season, to ensure it is clear and in good working order.