The word "flared up" is commonly used to describe a sudden and intense burst of emotion or physical symptom. The pronunciation of this term is /flɛrd ʌp/, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "a" in "flared" is pronounced as the short "e" sound, while the "e" in "up" is pronounced as the schwa sound. The spelling of "flared up" accurately represents the pronunciation of the word and is a common expression used in everyday conversation.
Flared up is a phrasal verb that is commonly used to describe a sudden and intense outbreak or reoccurrence of a physical or emotional condition or situation.
When used in relation to a physical condition, such as a medical ailment or an injury, flared up refers to the sudden worsening or exacerbation of symptoms. For example, if someone has a chronic skin condition like eczema or psoriasis, they may experience periods of remission followed by a flare-up, in which their skin becomes red, swollen, and itchy.
In terms of emotional or interpersonal situations, flared up indicates a sudden intensification of tensions, conflicts, or arguments, often resulting from a build-up of unresolved issues. For instance, a disagreement between two coworkers may initially seem minor, but if left unaddressed, could escalate and flared up into a full-blown conflict.
Flared up can also apply to situations where violence or aggression suddenly erupts. This can refer to incidents such as riots, protests, or clashes between opposing groups or individuals. In these cases, the term conveys a rapid escalation in hostility and aggression.
Overall, flared up is a versatile and descriptive term that captures the sudden, intense, and often unpredictable nature of an outbreak, whether it be physical symptoms, emotional conflicts, or violent incidents.
The phrase "flared up" is a combination of two words: "flare" and "up".
The word "flare" traces its origin back to the Middle English period, derived from the Old Norse word "flerra" meaning "to blaze, flicker". It later became "flerian" in Middle English, which meant "to shine, glow". Over time, it evolved into the word "flare" with the specific meaning of a sudden burst of flame or light.
The word "up" is an Old English adverb meaning "in a higher position or to a higher level". It is derived from the Old Norse word "upp", which has the same meaning.
When combined, "flared up" refers to a sudden and intense increase or intensification of something, akin to a burst of flame or light rising higher.