Flashes: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe sudden bursts of light or sudden moments of intense activity. Often used in photography or to describe quick changes in visual scenes.

• The camera flashes were blinding
• There were lightning flashes across the sky

Refers to a small, fiery particle or a brief, intense moment of activity, creativity, or emotion. Can also be used metaphorically to describe the start of something.

• A spark of inspiration hit him
• The fire started with just a small spark

Describes a steady light, often soft and warm. Can also describe a feeling of warmth and happiness.

• The candles gave off a warm glow
• She had a glow of satisfaction on her face

Often used to describe something that burns or blazes up suddenly and brightly. It can also refer to an intense burst of emotion or a signal light.

• The match flared up in the darkness
• Tempers began to flare during the heated argument

Used to describe sudden, brief appearances of memories or thoughts, often coming and going quickly.

• Images of our trip to Paris flashed in and out of my mind
• She had flashes of her childhood home

Used for actively bringing a memory or thought to consciousness, often with effort.

• I tried hard to recall the name of that restaurant
• Can you recall what happened last night?

Used for remembering something from the past, often with some formality or effort. It can also imply a more detailed and complete memory.

• I don’t recollect the exact details of the conversation
• She could clearly recollect the events of that day

Used when something reminds you of a memory or thought, often through association or similarity.

• The smell of fresh bread brings to mind my grandmother's kitchen
• This song brings to mind our high school days