Flammable vs. Inflammable – Which is Correct?
The terms “flammable” and “inflammable” both refer to materials that can easily catch fire. Despite their differing prefixes, they share the same meaning, which often leads to confusion. Understanding the context in which each word is used can help clarify their appropriate applications in everyday language.
Flammable or Inflammable – Which is Correct?
Both “flammable” and “inflammable” are correct and can be used interchangeably. However, “flammable” is the preferred term in safety and legal contexts because it clearly indicates that a substance can easily ignite. “Inflammable,” while technically accurate, can cause misunderstandings, as the prefix “in-” can mistakenly imply a negation.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Flammable | Use when referring to materials that can easily catch fire. | The liquid was labeled as flammable. |
| Inflammable | Use cautiously, as it may lead to confusion; technically correct. | The instructions noted that the chemicals are inflammable. |
How to Use Flammable
“Flammable” is used to describe substances that can easily ignite and sustain combustion. This term is commonly found in safety warnings and material data sheets.
Example 1: The workshop was filled with flammable materials.
Example 2: Always keep flammable liquids away from heat sources.
Example 3: The label warns that the product is flammable.
What are the different forms of Flammable?
“Flammable” is primarily used as an adjective. It does not have various tenses as verbs do, but it can be modified to indicate various forms such as “flammability” (the quality of being flammable) and “flammably” (in a flammable manner).
Etymology of the word Flammable
“Flammable” originates from the Latin word “flammare,” meaning “to set on fire.” The word evolved into the English language in the late 19th century, capturing the essence of materials that can ignite easily.
How to Use Inflammable
“Inflammable” is also used to describe materials that can easily catch fire, but caution is advised due to potential confusion.
Example 1: The label states that this substance is inflammable.
Example 2: It’s crucial to handle inflammable items with care.
Example 3: Keep the inflammable products away from open flames.
What are the different forms of Inflammable?
Etymology of the word Inflammable
“Inflammable” comes from the late Latin word “inflammabilis,” meaning “able to be set on fire.” The prefix “in-” here does not mean “not,” but rather is a part of the word’s formation, which is why it can be misleading.
Practice Exercises
- Always store ________ liquids away from heat.
- The instructions indicate that the product is ________.
- Handle all ________ materials with extreme care.
- The label warned that the chemicals were ________.
- Make sure to keep ________ items away from flames.
Answer Key
- flammable
- inflammable
- flammable
- inflammable
- flammable
Flammable Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Combustible | Able to catch fire and burn easily. |
| Ignitable | Capable of being ignited; catch fire easily. |
Inflammable Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Combustible | Able to catch fire and burn easily. |
| Ignitable | Capable of being ignited; catch fire easily. |
Conclusion
In summary, “flammable” and “inflammable” both describe materials that can ignite easily, though “flammable” is the safer choice in communication. Recognizing their interchangeability while understanding the potential for confusion is key to proper usage in safety discussions.
