← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: The campaign decided to fight fire with fire after the opponent's ad blitz.

Fight fire with fire

Meaning

Respond to an attack with similar tactics.

Usage

Used to justify mirror strategies in competition.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Firefighting advice about using backfires to contain wildfires.

Adopted metaphorically in military and business writing.

Related Idioms

Play with fire

Take reckless chances that might lead to harm.

Fight tooth and nail

Struggle vigorously and aggressively to achieve something.

Get two birds with one stone

Achieve two things with one effort.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.