THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Add fuel to the fire
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
To make an argument or an already bad situation worse.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- Posting another angry message will only add fuel to the fire.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
Posting another angry message will only ________.
Show the answer
Add fuel to the fire — To make an argument or an already bad situation worse.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Add fuel to the fire” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
To make an argument or an already bad situation worse.
Compare: Posting another angry message will only add fuel to the fire.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use this expression when a comment, action or new development intensifies existing trouble. It can help explain why a response may be unhelpful.
More examples in context
- His sarcastic reply added fuel to the fire during the disagreement.
- Repeating an unconfirmed rumour could add fuel to the fire.
Usage note
The past form is added fuel to the fire. Add fuel to the flames is another variation. The situation is already difficult before the extra action makes it worse.
A short conversation
A: Should I reply to that angry message right now?
B: A sarcastic reply may add fuel to the fire.
A: I will wait and write a calmer response.
One more practice question
Which action adds fuel to the fire during an argument?
A. Making a hostile remark that increases the tension.
B. Calmly correcting a misunderstanding and reducing tension.
Check your answer
A. The remark worsens an existing disagreement. Reducing tension has the opposite effect.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.