# fan the flames

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/fan-the-flames
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To intensify or worsen an already difficult situation.

## Examples

- Don't argue with him, you are only fanning the flames.
- The manager's angry email only fanned the flames of the office dispute.
- By publicly criticizing the protesters, the politician inadvertently fanned the flames of social unrest across the entire country.

---

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.