# flame up

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flame-up
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.