brushfire
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈbrʌʃˌfaɪər//
KK: /ˈbrʌʃˌfaɪər/
adjective
Definition
Relating to small-scale conflicts or situations that require limited resources to manage.
Example
The country faced several brushfire conflicts that were quickly resolved.
Conversation
Did you hear about the brushfire in the park last weekend?
Yeah, I read it was pretty contained, thankfully.
It's a relief that it was just a brushfire and not something worse.
Definitely, but I hope they keep an eye on it just in case.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
minor
local
petty
Antonyms
major
significant
extensive
noun
Definition
A fire that occurs in areas with low-growing plants, bushes, and small trees.
Example
The brushfire spread quickly through the dry grass and shrubs.
Conversation
Did you hear about the brushfire near the park?
Yeah, I saw it on the news; it looked pretty serious.
I hope they can control the brushfire before it spreads further.
Root Explanation
Brushfire is formed from "brush" (from Old English *brysc*, meaning undergrowth or shrubs) and "fire" (from Old English *fyr*, meaning fire). The term describes a fire that occurs in brush or undergrowth, typically in wild areas.
Memory Tip
Think of 'brush' as the undergrowth where the fire occurs, and 'fire' as the flames themselves. This helps you remember that a brushfire is a fire in the brush.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.