These words sound the same, and their meanings do overlap, metaphorically, but they are quite different.
First of all, both words are nouns, but only flare can also be a verb.
Flair, which is always a noun, means either “talent” or “style”:
She went to art school because she had a flair (talent) for visual design.
She dressed with a certain flair (style) that caught everyone’s attention.
Flare, refers, most basically, to any small, temporary, bright light, such as a shooting star, or an emergency light; many people carry flares in their cars. Small portable flares are often used in emergency situations to locate people who need help, or to create light quickly in a dark place, such as a cave. Until recently, flares were always chemical, burning, lights, not electric lights, although now there are also electric flares.
Flare can also mean “an outburst of emotion, violence, or illness” and may be used as either a noun or a verb with these meanings:
Emotions may flare when people argue.
There was a flare-up of emotions when they argued.
Fighting flared up between Israel and Hamas—there was a flare-up of shooting between them.
When we are weak, illnesses may flare up.
The flare-up of his illness made Charles weak.
As you can see from the examples, flare very often becomes flare-up, especially when used as a noun.
The basic meaning of flare is that of the brightly burning light, and the other meanings shown above are metaphorical.
Flair and flare are often mixed up by native English speakers, so you may see them spelled the wrong way in publications sometimes.
More Examples of How to Use “Flair” in a Sentence
Here is a list of additional example sentences that use the word “flair”:
- A good ear for style will convey in your writing—just try not to go overboard with flair, or you might distract your readers.
- The flamboyant socialite had no flair for decorating.
- My friends won’t go out with me because they said I lack flair—whatever that means.
- Clothing is one of the easiest ways to add a touch of flair to your overall look and style.
- Flair is what makes someone a true original; it’s that special something that can’t be duplicated.
More Examples of How to Use “Flare” in a Sentence
And here is a list of additional example sentences that use the word “flare”:
- A flare can be seen from a long distance, making it a useful tool for getting help.
- There are different types of flares, including handheld flares and flare guns; handheld flares are small and easy to carry, making them a good option for people who are hiking or camping in remote areas.
- Martha was so angry that her nostrils started to flare, and she began to breathe heavily.
- The fire flared up suddenly, and within minutes the entire building was engulfed in flames.
- Rita is careful not to eat anything that might cause her autoimmune disorder to flare up, which always results in inflammation and fatigue for hours or even days at a time.