Fight fire with fire

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phrase

To respond to aggression with aggression. To use similar methods to oppose someone or something.

If they criticise our team, we will fight fire with fire and reveal their shortcomings.
Visual representation of "fight fire with fire" - To respond to aggression with aggression. To use similar methods to oppose someone or something.

Often appears as...

  • stand up and fight fire with fire
  • going to fight fire with fire

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "fight fire with fire"
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Metaphorical Use

The phrase is not about actual fires, but rather confronting a challenge with similar tactics.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
When he started to raise his voice, I decided to fight fire with fire and spoke firmly.
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Confrontational Contexts

It's usually used in situations where there's conflict or opposition.

Illustration for Confrontational Contexts
As the debate got heated, she decided to fight fire with fire and argued passionately.
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Potential Escalation

Using the phrase hints there could be an increase in tension or aggression in response.

Illustration for Potential Escalation
The negotiations were going nowhere, so they chose to fight fire with fire with a firm ultimatum.
Visual representation of the word "Fight fire with fire"

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