on fire

USAGE SUMMARY

'on fire' is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is very hot, figuratively or literally, or to describe something that is performing well or is successful. For example: The stock market is on fire this week!.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Oh yes, I'M ON FIRE.

The New York Times

Actually on fire?

The Guardian

Blumhouse is on fire.

The New York Times

Biden is on fire.

The New Yorker

"Bowery's on fire.

The New Yorker

It is on fire.

The New York Times

"She was on fire".

The New York Times

Was he on fire?

The New York Times - Magazine

They're on fire".

The New York Times - Sports

I was on fire.

The New York Times

Europe is on fire.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on fire" to describe situations or individuals experiencing rapid success or intense activity. Ensure the context makes it clear whether you're speaking literally or figuratively.

Common error

Be mindful that "on fire" can be ambiguous. If describing a situation that is figuratively "on fire", ensure that the surrounding text clarifies that it is not a literal fire. Otherwise, consider alternative phrases to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on fire" primarily functions as a predicate adjective or adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a state of burning or, more commonly, exceptional performance. Ludwig highlights both literal and figurative uses of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on fire" is a versatile expression used to describe both literal burning and, more commonly, a state of exceptional performance or success. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it leans towards informal usage and should be used judiciously in formal writing. Remember to consider context to avoid ambiguity between literal and figurative meanings. As Ludwig AI confirms, "on fire" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary for descriptive expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ablaze

Focuses on the state of being intensely burning.

in flames

Highlights the presence and activity of flames.

burning brightly

Emphasizes the intensity and visual aspect of the fire or success.

having a hot streak

Specifically refers to a period of great success or luck.

unstoppable

Indicates that something is performing exceptionally well and cannot be stopped.

on a roll

Suggests a continuous series of successes or good fortune.

at fever pitch

Implies a state of intense excitement or activity.

red-hot

Emphasizes the intensity and excitement associated with something.

in excellent form

Highlights the high level of performance or condition.

doing exceptionally well

A more formal way of expressing high performance or success.

FAQs

How can I use "on fire" in a sentence?

You can use "on fire" to describe something literally burning, like "The building was on fire". Figuratively, it describes someone performing exceptionally well, like "That basketball player is on fire tonight!"

What can I say instead of "on fire" when describing someone's performance?

Alternatives include "on a roll", "unstoppable", or "having a hot streak", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "on fire" in formal writing?

While "on fire" is widely understood, it's generally more appropriate for informal or journalistic contexts. For formal writing, consider alternatives like "performing exceptionally well" or "highly successful".

What is the difference between "on fire" and "ablaze"?

"On fire" can be used both literally and figuratively, while "ablaze" primarily refers to a literal state of being intensely burning. "The house was on fire" vs. "The house was ablaze" are both acceptable, but you wouldn't say "The team was ablaze".