catch fire
Meaning
To start burning; also, to suddenly become successful, popular, or exciting.
Origin
Literally from fire spreading and “catching” (taking hold). The figurative sense extends the image to ideas, trends, or projects that quickly gain momentum.
Notes
Used both literally and figuratively. Figuratively it implies rapid spread or momentum (a story, idea, trend, campaign). Often used in past tense: “caught fire.”
Examples
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Be careful with that candle—the curtains could catch fire.
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The old wiring in the attic might catch fire if it overheats.
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The engine started smoking, and within minutes the whole car caught fire.
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Dry grass can catch fire easily during a heatwave.
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If that rumour catches fire online, it could damage the company’s reputation.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Verb phrase; inflects normally (catch/caught/caught). Literal use often takes a subject like “the curtains caught fire” (sometimes “caught on fire” in AmE). Figurative use often with abstract subjects (“the idea caught fire”).
Synonyms
- ignite
- burst into flames
- catch on fire
- take off
- gain traction
- spread quickly
Antonyms
- go out
- die down
- fizzle out
- fail to take off