Noun Phrase
/ˈoʊ.pən fleɪm/
The term "open flame" refers to a flame that is exposed to the open air rather than being contained or enclosed. In practical terms, it often pertains to the use of fire in cooking, heating, or industrial processes where the fire is not shielded.
Frequency of Use: "Open flame" is a commonly used phrase, particularly in contexts related to safety, cooking, and outdoor activities. It is used more frequently in written contexts (such as safety regulations and cooking guidelines) than in casual spoken conversation.
"Please be cautious when cooking near an open flame."
"Por favor, ten cuidado al cocinar cerca de una llama abierta."
"Using an open flame for heating can be dangerous if not monitored."
"Usar una llama abierta para calefacción puede ser peligroso si no se supervisa."
"The campfire provided a warm open flame for us to gather around."
"La fogata nos proporcionó una cálida llama abierta para reunirnos."
While "open flame" itself is not commonly found in idioms, it relates to several idiomatic expressions concerning fire or caution.
"Play with fire" – to engage in risky behavior.
"Si sigues jugando con fuego, te vas a quemar."
"If you keep playing with fire, you’re going to get burned."
"Burning the candle at both ends" – to overextend oneself.
"Está quemando la vela por ambos extremos y le está afectando la salud."
"He is burning the candle at both ends, and it's affecting his health."
"Caught fire" – to become very exciting or successful quickly.
"El negocio realmente tomó impulso, como si hubiera atrapado fuego."
"The business really caught fire, as if it had caught fire."
"Where's there's smoke, there's fire" – if there are signs of a problem, there’s likely a genuine issue behind it.
"Siempre dice que donde hay humo, hay fuego."
"He always says that where there's smoke, there's fire."
The word "open" comes from Old English "āpen," meaning "not closed or blocked." The word "flame" derives from Old French "flame," which comes from Latin "flamma," meaning "a flame, blaze." The combination "open flame" directly conveys the idea of a flame that is not encased or obstructed.
Synonyms: - Exposed flame - Unenclosed flame - Free flame
Antonyms: - Enclosed flame - Controlled burn - Shielded flame