To make an already bad or tense situation worse by saying or doing something that increases anger, conflict, or problems.
This metaphor draws from the literal act of adding combustible material to an existing fire, which causes it to burn more intensely and spread. The phrase has been used since at least the 16th century, reflecting humanity's long relationship with fire as both a helpful tool and a dangerous force that could quickly get out of control.
What's brilliant about this metaphor is how it captures the exponential nature of escalation - just as a small amount of fuel can transform a manageable fire into an inferno, a single thoughtless comment can turn a minor disagreement into a raging argument. The phrase reminds us that some situations require water, not gasoline.
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