Burn: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the process of something being consumed by fire or being damaged by heat. It can also refer to a feeling, like a burning sensation.

• The fire will burn for hours.
• Be careful not to burn yourself.
• The soup is too hot; it burns my tongue.

Used to describe the action of starting a fire or causing something to burn. It can also be used metaphorically to start something, like an idea or emotion.

• He used a match to ignite the bonfire.
• The lecture ignited their interest in science.
• Their small argument ignited into a huge fight.

Often used to describe a very large or fiercely burning fire. It can also metaphorically describe something intensely bright or passions/emotions that are very strong.

• The wildfire blazed through the forest.
• The sun blazed in the sky.
• His eyes blazed with anger.

Refers more specifically to the visible part of a fire. Can also be used metaphorically to describe strong feelings or actions, often negative.

• The candle's flame flickered in the wind.
• Their romance rekindled a new flame.
• She flamed him in the comments, showing her anger.

This second 'burn' is used metaphorically to describe a harsh or cutting remark intended to insult or criticize.

• His sarcastic comment was a real burn.
• Ouch, that burn stung more than I expected!

Use 'scald' specifically for burns caused by hot liquids or steam.

• Be careful not to scald yourself with the hot soup.
• He scalded his hand while pouring the boiling water.

Use 'wound' for cuts, lacerations, or open injuries where the skin is broken, often due to an external force.

• The soldier had a deep wound on his arm.
• She applied a bandage to the wound to stop the bleeding.

Use 'injury' to describe any kind of physical harm or damage to the body, not limited to burns.

• He had to leave the game due to a knee injury.
• She sustained multiple injuries in the car accident.