Like wildfire: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Like wildfire” mean?

"Like wildfire" means that something is spreading quickly and uncontrollably.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The rumors spread like wildfire throughout the school.

Example

The virus is spreading like wildfire across the country.

Example

The news of the sale spread like wildfire and everyone rushed to the store

Is “Like wildfire” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Like wildfire” 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 “Like wildfire” effectively in context?

You can use "Like wildfire" to describe something that is spreading rapidly and uncontrollably. It emphasizes the speed and extent of the spread. For example, if you want to talk about how a rumor is spreading quickly, you might say, 'The rumors spread "like wildfire" throughout the school.'

• 1. Gossip

  The rumors about their breakup spread like wildfire and soon everyone knew.

• 2. Disease

  The virus is spreading like wildfire across the country, and it's causing great concern.

• 3. News or Information

  The news of the sale spread like wildfire and everyone rushed to the store to get the best deals.

Similar phrases to “Like wildfire”:

Spread like a virus

To spread rapidly and uncontrollably, similar to the way a virus spreads

Example

The video went viral and spread like a virus across social media platforms.

Catch on like wildfire

To become popular or widely known very quickly

Example

The new dance move caught on like wildfire and soon everyone was doing it.

Spread like wildflowers

To spread quickly and naturally, similar to the way wildflowers grow

Example

The idea of random acts of kindness spread like wildflowers and inspired many people to do good deeds.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Like wildfire” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Like wildfire" is unknown.

Is “Like wildfire” common in everyday conversation?

"Like wildfire" is a very common expression in everyday conversation. It is frequently used to describe the rapid and uncontrollable spread of various things, such as rumors, diseases, or information.

What tone does “Like wildfire” have?

"Like wildfire" conveys a tone of urgency and intensity. It suggests that something is spreading quickly and without control, often causing excitement, concern, or chaos.

Can “Like wildfire” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Like wildfire" is an informal expression that is commonly used in both casual and formal settings. It is suitable for everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more professional contexts such as presentations, meetings, or written communication.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

"Like wildfire" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The news of the scandal spread "like wildfire".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's spreading "like wildfire"!' to imply the rapid and uncontrollable nature of something.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• spread rapidly
• spread quickly
• spread uncontrollably
• spread like lightning
• spread at an alarming rate
• spread like a brushfire
• spread rapidly and far

Antonyms

• spread slowly
• spread gradually
• spread in a controlled manner
• spread at a snail's pace
• spread with difficulty