Set light to something

usgb
verb phrase

To start a fire or cause something to start burning.

He set light to the pile of leaves in his backyard.
Visual representation of "set light to something" - To start a fire or cause something to start burning

Often appears as...

  • set light to the leaves
  • set light to the paper
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "set light to something"
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Literal Use

Used to describe actually starting a fire, often for a purpose like burning leaves or trash.

Illustration for Literal Use
In autumn, the farmer set light to the stubble in his fields.
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Metaphorical Use

Sometimes used metaphorically to imply causing excitement or starting something energetically.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Her speech set light to the audience's passion.
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Non-literal Warning

Not to be confused with 'shed light on', which means to clarify or explain something.

Illustration for Non-literal Warning
Incorrect: He set light to the mystery. Correct: He shed light on the mystery.
Visual representation of the word "Set light to something"

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