Translation guide
The English phrase 'flaring up' can refer to a sudden increase in intensity, such as a fire, emotion, conflict, or medical condition. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each of these situations.
To describe a fire, flame, or light that suddenly becomes stronger or brighter.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to blaze up' or 'to flare up'. Used for flames or fires suddenly growing larger.
風で火が燃え上がった。
The fire flared up in the wind.
Slightly more formal or dramatic; often used for large fires or metaphorical 'going up in flames'.
小屋が一瞬で炎上した。
The hut flared up in an instant.
To describe anger, a dispute, or strong feelings that suddenly become more intense.
Common for conflicts, disputes, or situations escalating. Neutral to formal.
抗議が激化した。
The protests flared up.
Literally 're-ignite'. Used when a conflict or emotion that had subsided flares up again.
対立が再燃した。
The conflict flared up again.
For anger specifically flaring up explosively.
彼の怒りが突然爆発した。
His anger suddenly flared up.
To describe a disease, pain, or symptom that suddenly becomes more severe.
Standard term for a disease or symptom recurring or flaring up after a period of remission.
腰痛が再発した。
My back pain flared up again.
General term for 'worsen'. Can be used for symptoms suddenly getting worse.
症状が急に悪化した。
The symptoms flared up suddenly.
Colloquial for a condition returning or flaring up again, often used for colds or pain.
To describe fighting, riots, or trouble that suddenly starts or intensifies.
Formal term for 'outbreak' of war, violence, or conflict. Often used in news.
暴動が勃発した。
A riot flared up.
Neutral 'occur/break out'. Less intense than 勃発.
小競り合いが発生した。
A skirmish flared up.
再発 is used for medical recurrences, while 再燃 is for conflicts or emotions re-igniting. Using 再発 for a fight sounds unnatural.
Do not directly translate 'flare up' as フレアアップ or 燃え上がる for non-fire contexts. Use the appropriate verb for the situation.
風邪がぶり返した。
My cold flared up again.