Flair vs. Flare: When Talent Meets Fire!

Flair vs. Flare: What’s the Difference?

Flair and flare are two different words that sound the same. They mean different things and are used in different ways. Let’s learn more about them!

Word History

Flair: This word comes from old French. It means a natural ability or talent for something. For example, if you do something very well, you can say you have a flair for it.

Flare: This word comes from old Scandinavian languages. It means to burn brightly or to spread out. Flares are also bright lights used for signals.

How to Use Them

Flair: Use this word when talking about someone’s talent or style. It can also mean a special, stylish way of doing something.

• She has a flair for dancing.
• John’s flair in cooking makes his meals special.
• The artist’s flair is seen in his paintings.
• She added her own flair to the dress.
• His flair for storytelling made the book interesting.

Flare: Use this word when talking about something that burns or shines brightly, or something that spreads out and gets larger.

• The fire flares up in the night.
• He set off a flare to signal for help.
• The sun flares during a solar storm.
• Her skirt flares out at the bottom.
• The pain flares up each time he moves.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of the “i” in flair as standing for “individual” talent. Think of the “a” in flare as spreading out or “a” like flames.

Summary

Use flair to talk about a special talent or unique style. Use flare when describing something that shines, spreads, or burns brightly.

Now you know the difference between flair and flare! Remember, flair is about talent and style, and flare is about light and spreading out.