Phrasal verb
flare out
Definitions
01to become wider
phr.v. to gradually become wider at one end, like the bottom of a skirt or a pair of trousers.
phr.v. to spread outward from a central axis or narrow point, creating a wider shape at the extremity.
“The designer made the dress so that it would flare out at the waist.”
“The skirt was tailored to flare out dramatically as the dancer spun, creating a sense of fluid motion across the stage.”
Usage
Intransitive; the subject is usually a piece of clothing or a structural element.
02to burst with emotion
phr.v. to suddenly become very angry or to show strong feelings.
phr.v. to erupt or intensify suddenly, particularly in reference to temper, violence, or a physical condition.
“His temper tended to flare out whenever someone questioned his authority.”
“Long-standing tensions between the two factions began to flare out into open conflict after the negotiations collapsed.”
Informal
Usage
Intransitive; often used interchangeably with 'flare up' in modern contexts.
Teaching tip
While 'flare up' is more common for illnesses or sudden anger, 'flare out' is frequently used when the emotion or conflict spreads or becomes visible to others.
Teaching tip
connect this to the noun 'flare' used for emergency lights or the shape of 'flared jeans' to help students visualize the widening motion.
Phrasal verb
Particles
out
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
flare + out
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/flare-out