# add fuel to the fire

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/add-fuel-to-the-fire
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To worsen a conflict between people; to inflame an already tense situation.

## Examples

- Do not argue with him, you will only add fuel to the fire.
- The manager knew that criticizing the team during the meeting would only add fuel to the fire, so she stayed quiet.
- By publicly mocking his rival's recent failure, the politician inadvertently added fuel to the fire and ensured the debate would become even more aggressive.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.