English Reference

Phrasal verb

flame up

Definition

phrasal verb. to suddenly start burning with bright flames. You can also use this when someone suddenly gets very angry or when a skin problem gets worse.

phrasal verb. To ignite suddenly or burn with greater intensity. The verb is intransitive and functions to describe physical combustion, the worsening of a medical condition, or a sudden eruption of emotion.

Examples

“The dry wood began to flame up as soon as the match touched it.”

“Whenever the topic of the inheritance came up, her resentment would flame up, leading to a bitter argument with her siblings.”

“The neglected embers, fanned by a sudden draft from the open window, began to flame up once more, casting long, dancing shadows across the library walls.”

Examples

simple

“The dry wood began to flame up as soon as the match touched it.”

contextual

“Whenever the topic of the inheritance came up, her resentment would flame up, leading to a bitter argument with her siblings.”

complex

“The neglected embers, fanned by a sudden draft from the open window, began to flame up once more, casting long, dancing shadows across the library walls.”

Usage

usually used without an object to describe a sudden increase in heat, light, or emotion.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'flare up'; while 'flare up' is more common for medical issues or violence, 'flame up' emphasizes the visual intensity of the start.

Phrasal verb

Particles

up

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

flame + up

Synonyms

flare upigniteblazeerupt

Antonyms

die downsubsidego out

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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