catch fire
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb: * To begin to burn; to ignite and start burning, often with flames. * To become ignited or set on fire.
Usage
The verb phrase "catch fire" describes the moment something starts burning. It is intransitive, meaning it does not take a direct object. The thing that starts burning is the subject of the sentence. It often implies an unintended or sudden start of a fire.
Examples
- The dry leaves caught fire quickly in the summer heat.
- Be careful with that curtain near the candle, or it might catch fire.
- The engine caught fire after the collision.
- If a spark lands on that material, it will catch fire.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: Can be used metaphorically to mean to become very popular, excited, or passionate very quickly.
- Example: The new fashion trend caught fire among teenagers.
- Example: The crowd's enthusiasm caught fire after the first goal.
Variants and Related Words
- Catch on fire: A common variant with the same meaning as "catch fire".
- Example: Make sure the tent is far from the fire pit so it doesn't catch on fire.
- Combust (verb): A more formal or scientific synonym for catching fire or burning.
- Ignite (verb): Often used as a transitive verb (to ignite something) meaning to cause something to catch fire. It can also be intransitive with the same meaning as "catch fire".
Synonyms
- Ignite
- Combust
- Burst into flames
- Go up in flames
- Kindle (often transitive)
Related Phrasal Verbs / Idioms
- Set fire to (something) / Set (something) on fire: A transitive phrasal verb meaning to cause something to catch fire.
- Example: The arsonist set fire to the old building.
- Play with fire: An idiom meaning to take unnecessary and dangerous risks.
- Example: Not preparing for the exam is playing with fire.
Verb
- start to burn or burst into flames
- Marsh gases ignited suddenly
- The oily rags combusted spontaneously