What does “Get on like a house on fire” mean?
"Get on like a house on fire" means to have a very good and friendly relationship.
What context can I use the in?
Example
They met at the party and got on like a house on fire.
Example
Ever since they started working together, they've been getting on like a house on fire.
Example
The new neighbors moved in next door and they're already getting on like a house on fire with everyone in the neighborhood
Is “Get on like a house on fire” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Get on like a house on fire” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Get on like a house on fire” effectively in context?
You can use "Get on like a house on fire" to describe two people who have a very good and friendly relationship. It emphasizes the idea that they get along extremely well and have a strong connection. For example, if you have two friends who instantly hit it off and become close, you might say, 'They met at the party and got on like a house on fire.'
- 1Friendship
Ever since they started working together, they've been getting on like a house on fire.
- 2Neighborhood
The new neighbors moved in next door and they're already getting on like a house on fire with everyone in the neighborhood.
- 3Colleagues
Despite being from different departments, they got on like a house on fire and became great friends at work.
Similar phrases to “Get on like a house on fire”:
To be unable to be separated or apart from each other
Example
They're inseparable and do everything together.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Get on like a house on fire” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Get on like a house on fire" is unknown.
Is “Get on like a house on fire” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Get on like a house on fire" is a common idiom used in everyday conversation. It's often used to describe strong and positive relationships between people.
What tone does “Get on like a house on fire” have?
"Get on like a house on fire" conveys a tone of enthusiasm and positivity. It suggests a deep connection and compatibility between individuals.
Can “Get on like a house on fire” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Get on like a house on fire" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a strong bond between people. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as professional networking events or team-building activities.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They met at the party and got on like a house on fire.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'We're getting on like a house on fire!' to express a strong connection with someone.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- click
- get along like a house on fire
- have a great rapport
- be on the same wavelength
- be bosom buddies
Antonyms
- not see eye to eye
- have a falling out
- be at odds
- dislike each other
- be incompatible