Flashpoint - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A flashpoint is the critical moment or situation where tensions or conflicts escalate suddenly. It can also refer to the lowest temperature at which a substance ignites when exposed to a flame.
Definition:
The temperature at which a flammable substance ignites, or a situation likely to erupt into violence.
Synonyms:
ignition point, boiling point, crisis point
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
peace, calm
Common Collocations:
reach flashpoint, lower flashpoint, volatile flashpoint
Derivatives:
flashpoints, flashing (related but not direct)
Usage Tips:
Use "flashpoint" for volatile situations or literal ignition temperatures; avoid in non-critical contexts.
Common Phrases:
hit a flashpoint, become a flashpoint, at flashpoint temperature
Etymology:
Derived from "flash" (sudden burst) + "point" (specific moment or temperature), first used in early 20th century.
Examples:
- 1. The chemical's flashpoint is dangerously low.
- 2. Tensions reached a flashpoint during the protest.
- 3. The debate became a political flashpoint overnight.
- 4. Store solvents below their flashpoint to prevent fires.