Phraseologism "add fuel to the fire" is familiar to everyone, and everyone at least once in his life uttered this phrase. The meaning of the expression is understandable, but we still talk about it and delve into its semantics.
“Add oil to the fire”: meaning
The statement is expressed by any actions that exacerbate the existing situation, strengthen the negative negative mood, exacerbate the heated feelings.
And people can do this and not specifically. This is unintentional. More often, of course, they use this in order to assert themselves at the expense of others, achieving their goals, going over their heads.
Give an example
Suppose, the head of the sales department reports on the poorly performed work of a subordinate, and a colleague of the same link gives arguments that drown a colleague. In this case, he aggravates the situation by the fact that he “gives in to the heat” in an intensified dialogue. Thus leaving due to this situation.
After adding oil to the fire, it will flare up more, hence the essence of phraseology.
Historical fact
It turns out that the phraseology “add fuel to the fire” is rooted in ancient Rome. The ancient Roman historian Titus Livius used this expression in his writings. The poet Horace also used it in his works. In the English dictionary there is a similar phrase "add fuel to the fire." The expression has existed for more than two thousand years, so it can be found in various languages in one interpretation or another.
Thus, it is clear that this phraseological turn was used by ancient famous poets and writers, historians in their works. The phrase is able to decorate the literary syllable and give speech artistic expression. Used figuratively.
And finally, good advice: do not add oil to the fire
Do not add negativity. Often, loved ones can turn to you for help. And here it is very important to observe delicacy and subordination. If you start to heat up, it will not help to cope with stress. This will lead to deeper depression. Let's say a friend broke up with a guy. Her tears and feelings make you angry and irritated. Of course she is depressed. And it’s stupid to be mad at her in this situation and call for prudence or speak out negatively about the guy. This will only exacerbate the already difficult situation.
From the above examples, it can be noted that the phrase “add oil to the fire” has an analogue - the identical established phraseology “give up heat (steam)”. There are other synonyms: "pep up", "strengthen", "increase".
Thus, these phraseological units are synonyms, but have different colors. The first speech revolution is used in the case when you need to more clearly and expressively express a negative assessment of the current situation, reflect a dramatic attitude to what is happening. The phrase "give in to the heat" also enhances the action, only wears a more approving, positive connotation.