ignite a fire

USAGE SUMMARY

'ignite a fire' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the action of lighting a fire, whether literal or figurative. For example, "The spark of curiosity ignited a fire of passion in her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

It could be simple acts of protest that ignite a fire.

The New York Times

A plane could theoretically plunge into the building and trigger events that could drain the pools and ignite a fire, which could spread radioactivity into the environment.

The New York Times

The Tagi group is more cooperative but cannot ignite a fire, no matter how hard they rub pieces of wood together.

The New York Times

The News Corporation declined an interview request, but Joe Bilman of Fox Mobile, who is described as the chief architect of Bitbop, said in a statement in March that "the marriage of on-demand content and mobility has the power to ignite a fire in the smartphone space".

The New York Times

But some experts say a jumbo jet, or at least its engines, might break through the dome and ignite a fire or explosion that could cause enough disruption to start the reactor toward meltdown and release of radioactivity into the atmosphere.

The New York Times

They say the units could overheat and ignite a fire hazard for users.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

That putt was like a match that ignited a fire.

The New York Times - Sports

"It ignites a fire in people who had given up".

The New York Times

In the late twentieth century, a muzzleloader in California ignited a fire that burned three thousand eight hundred and sixty acres.

The New Yorker

A second explosion followed quickly, bringing the roof down and igniting a fire.

The Guardian

His response ignited a fire within me that made me want prove him wrong.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ignite a fire" when you want to convey the idea of starting something, whether literally or figuratively. It can suggest sparking an interest, passion, or even a conflict.

Common error

While "ignite a fire" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or nuanced language might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ignite a fire" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of initiating or starting a fire, either in a literal sense or, more commonly, in a figurative sense to mean sparking something like passion, interest, or conflict. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

17%

Huffington Post

8%

Less common in

Reference

4%

The New York Times - Sports

4%

The Guardian - Travel

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ignite a fire" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe starting something, literally or figuratively. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is commonly found in news, media and general writing contexts, serving to convey a sense of initiation, intensity, or suddenness. While generally neutral in register, its usage should be considered carefully in formal contexts to ensure the most appropriate tone. Related phrases, such as "spark an interest", can offer alternative ways to express similar meanings with varying degrees of formality or intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start a blaze

Focuses specifically on the act of beginning a large or destructive fire.

set alight

Highlights the action of causing something to begin burning.

kindle a flame

Emphasizes a gentle or nurturing start to a fire or passion.

fan the flames

Suggests intensifying an existing fire, conflict, or emotion.

spark an interest

Shifts the meaning to initiating enthusiasm or curiosity.

trigger an outburst

Conveys initiating a sudden and often uncontrolled expression of emotion.

awaken passion

Focuses on rousing strong feelings or enthusiasm.

stir up trouble

Indicates the deliberate creation of conflict or problems.

set in motion

Refers to initiating a series of events or processes.

foment unrest

Implies instigating or promoting a state of dissatisfaction or rebellion.

FAQs

What does it mean to "ignite a fire" in a figurative sense?

Figuratively, "ignite a fire" means to spark or inspire a strong emotion, passion, or idea within someone. It suggests creating a sudden burst of enthusiasm or activity.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "ignite a fire"?

It's appropriate when you want to describe the act of starting something significant, whether it's a literal fire or a figurative one, like a movement or strong feeling. The phrase is common in news reporting, creative writing, and everyday conversation.

How can I rephrase "ignite a fire" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, consider using alternatives such as "spark an interest" or "trigger an outburst" depending on the context. These alternatives offer a more elevated tone.

Is "ignite a fire" the same as "start a fire"?

While similar, "ignite a fire" often carries a stronger connotation of suddenness or intensity compared to "start a fire". "Ignite" suggests a more forceful or impactful beginning.