The deadline is close, so I need to light a fire under my team.
light a fire under
idiomTo motivate or encourage (someone) to start sooner or move faster.
Origin
disputed originReferring to a time when, if chimney sweeps were afraid to ascend a chimney, the fire would be lit under them in order to motivate them to climb to the top.
Our manager lit a fire under the sales department after profits dropped last quarter.
The coach's harsh words at halftime finally lit a fire under the players, who returned to the field with a desperate energy that turned the game around.
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add fuel to the fire
To worsen a conflict between people; to inflame an already tense situation.
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amber light
Hesitance to proceed; limited approval or permission to proceed.
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ball of fire
A person who is especially active, ambitious, hard-working, or high-achieving.
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bright lights
The glamour and glitz of a place, especially a big city.
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bring to light
To expose, disclose or reveal something that was hidden or unknown.
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catch fire
To become engulfed in flames, to combust.
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come to light
To become known; to be revealed.
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draw fire
To create a distraction that allows one's friends, co-workers, or other associates to gain an advantage over the distracted party.
Last updated April 17, 2026