flash point

Thân thiện

A chemist carefully measures the flash point of a solvent in a laboratory.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • The lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off enough vapor to ignite in air: This is a scientific term for a specific, measurable property of a flammable substance.
   • A point or moment at which a situation becomes critical and is ready to explode into violence or major conflict: This is a figurative use describing a critical juncture in events.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Scientific):

  • The safety data sheet lists the flash point of gasoline as -43°C.
  • Storing chemicals requires knowing their flash point to prevent fire hazards.

• Noun (Figurative):

  • The dispute over resources was a flash point for the regional conflict.
  • The city became a flash point of social unrest after the announcement.

Advanced Usage

• "To reach flash point": To arrive at a critical, explosive moment.
  • Tensions in the region have reached flash point.

Variants and Related Words

• Flashpoint: A common alternative spelling, especially for the figurative meaning.
  • The courtroom was a flashpoint for public anger.

Synonyms

• Ignition point (Scientific): The temperature at which combustion begins.
• Boiling point (Figurative): A point of crisis or extreme agitation. (Note: "Boiling point" implies a buildup of emotion, while "flash point" implies a sudden ignition.)
• Tinderbox (Figurative): A situation that is highly volatile and likely to erupt.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• A powder keg: A situation that is extremely dangerous and could explode into violence at any moment. This is closely related to the figurative sense of "flash point."
  • The overcrowded prison was a powder keg waiting for a flash point.

Học thuật

Noun

1. the lowest temperature at which the vapor of a combustible liquid can be ignited in air
2. point at which something is ready to blow up

Từ đồng nghĩa

• flashpoint