The term 'conflagration' implies a fire is unusually large and severe, more than 'fire' or 'blaze'. Only a conflagration could have reduced the whole forest to ashes overnight.
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Destructive Connotation
'Conflagration' denotes extensive destruction, highlighting the damage more than the fire itself. The warehouse's conflagration left the company in ruins.
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Metaphoric Use
Can be used metaphorically to describe something that spreads fast and impacts many, like a viral video. The meme sparked a conflagration of laughter across the internet.