Flair vs Flare
Published January 23, 2023. Updated January 23, 2023.
Flair and flare are two words that sound the same but have different meanings. Flair is a noun that refers to one’s “special or innate ability to excel at something.” Flare, on the other hand, is a noun that refers to “a burst or explosion of energy.”
Here are some definitions and examples to help make the use of these words clearer.
Flair (noun)
Special or innate ability to excel at something
Examples:
I became a teacher because I have always had a flair for working with others.
She has a flair for fashion, so she decided to go to an art school after secondary
education.
When using flair, you are essentially referring to someone’s skill. Think of it as a synonym for words like skill, knack, or even passion.
Flare (noun)
A burst or explosion of energy
Examples:
Scientists have been tracking a recent uptick in solar flares for the last two years.
In many anime series, the characters battle each other with a series of energy flares.
Flares are essentially bursts or explosions of energy. While there are many types of flares, remember that a flare is something that can be both beautiful and dangerous.
Main Points
- Flair is a noun referring to someone’s ability to do something.
- Flare is a noun referring to a burst or explosion of energy.
- Remember that flair refers directly to a person’s skills, whereas flare is a measurable, observable burst of energy.