SOLAR-FLARE NOMENCLATURE

The evolution of solar flare nomenclature is reviewed in the context o f the paradigm shift, in progress, from flares to coronal mass ejectio ns (CMEs) in solar-terrestrial physics. Emphasis is placed on: the dis tinction between eruptive (Class II) flares and confined (Class I) fla res; and the underlying similarity of eruptive flares inside (two-ribb on flares) and outside (flare-like brightenings accompanying disappear ing filaments) of active regions. A list of research questions/problem s raised, or brought into focus, by the new paradigm is suggested; in general, these questions bear on the interrelationships and associatio ns of the two classes (or phases) of flares. Terms such as 'eruptive f lare' and 'eruption' (defined to encompass both the CME and its associ ated eruptive flare) may be useful as nominal links between opposing v iewpoints in the 'flares vs CMEs' controversy.