FAN THE FLAMES Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "fan the flames" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of intensifying or exacerbating a conflict, argument, controversy, or tense situation. This metaphorical phrase is derived from the action of blowing air on a fire, which leads to the flames growing larger and stronger.
To "fan the flames" means to deliberately or unintentionally provoke or encourage the escalation of an already volatile situation or to add fuel to a fire, both literally and figuratively. It involves actions or statements that contribute to the worsening of an already tense atmosphere, often by inciting further heated reactions, aggression, or disagreement among individuals or groups involved.
This expression is commonly used in contexts where emotions are running high, relationships have broken down, or a debate has turned into a heated argument. For example, a person might "fan the flames" by introducing controversial topics or inflammatory remarks during a discussion or by exacerbating conflicts by taking sides or instigating further aggression. It implies intentionally prolonging or worsening an ongoing issue rather than seeking resolution or reconciliation.
The phrase "fan the flames" thus provides a vivid metaphorical image of how someone's actions or words can add momentum and intensify an already volatile situation, just like blowing on a fire can make it grow exponentially.
Common Misspellings for FAN THE FLAMES
- fan the flams
- fan the flame
- dan the flames
- can the flames
- van the flames
- gan the flames
- tan the flames
- ran the flames
- fzn the flames
- fsn the flames
- fwn the flames
- fqn the flames
- fab the flames
- fam the flames
- faj the flames
- fah the flames
- fan rhe flames
- fan fhe flames
- fan ghe flames
- fan yhe flames
Idioms with the word FAN THE FLAMES
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fan the flames (of sth)
The idiom "fan the flames (of sth)" means to deliberately or provocatively intensify or increase a conflict, tension, or controversy. It refers to actions or words that escalate an already volatile situation, making it worse or more difficult to resolve.
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fan the flames (of something)
The idiom "fan the flames (of something)" refers to the act of increasing the intensity or severity of a situation or conflict; to promote or provoke further involvement or disagreement in a particular matter. It means to encourage or exacerbate an already difficult or heated situation.
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fan the flames
To "fan the flames" means to make a situation worse, usually by adding fuel to an argument or conflict and making it more intense.
