What does “On fire” mean?
"On fire" means that something is burning or aflame.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The house was on fire and the firefighters rushed to the scene.
Example
The forest is on fire and the authorities are working to contain it.
Example
The candle accidentally fell and set the curtains on fire
Is “On fire” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“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 “On fire” effectively in context?
You can use "On fire" to describe something that is burning or aflame. It can be used literally to refer to a physical fire, or figuratively to describe something that is very intense, exciting, or successful. For example, if you see a building engulfed in flames, you might say, 'The house is on fire!' Similarly, if a sports team is performing exceptionally well, you could say, 'They are on fire!'
- 1Emergency
The house was on fire and the firefighters rushed to the scene.
- 2Environmental
The forest is on fire and the authorities are working to contain it.
- 3Accident
The candle accidentally fell and set the curtains on fire.
Similar phrases to “On fire”:
Burning with a strong flame or heat
Example
The sun was blazing in the sky.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On fire” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On fire" is unknown.
Is “On fire” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "On fire" is a very common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe literal fires or to convey a sense of intensity, excitement, or success in various contexts.
What tone does “On fire” have?
"On fire" conveys a tone of urgency, intensity, or excitement, depending on the context in which it is used. It can be used to describe a dangerous situation or to express enthusiasm and admiration for someone's exceptional performance.
Can “On fire” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "On fire" can be used in both informal and formal settings. When used to describe literal fires, it is a straightforward and commonly understood expression. When used figuratively, it can add color and emphasis to conversations, presentations, or written texts.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It can be used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning, such as 'The building is on fire.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They are "on fire"!' to express excitement about someone's achievements.
