Strike a match Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈstɹaɪk/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈmætʃ

STRY-kuh-MATCH

UK

stɹˈaɪk/ /æɪ/ /mˈætʃ

stry-KUH-match

Definition

To make a match produce a flame by rubbing it against a rough surface.

Usage & Nuances

This expression is literal and slightly old-fashioned, as most people now use lighters. Use "strike a match" for lighting candles, stoves, or fires in traditional contexts. Not used for metaphorical purposes.

• Spanish: encender una cerilla
• Portuguese (BR): riscar um fósforo
• Portuguese (PT): riscas um fósforo
• Chinese (Simplified): 划火柴
• Chinese (Traditional): 劃火柴
• Hindi: माचिस जलाना
• Arabic: أشعل عود ثقاب
• Bengali: ম্যাচ কাঠি জ্বালানো
• Russian: спичку зажечь - чиркнуть спичкой
• Japanese: マッチを擦る
• Vietnamese: quẹt diêm
• Korean: 성냥을 켜다 - 성냥을 긋다
• Turkish: kibrit yakmak
• Urdu: ماچس جلانا
• Indonesian: menyalakan korek api

Example Sentences

He struck a match to light the candle.

basic

Please strike a match and start the fire.

basic

It was hard to strike a match in the wind.

basic

She fumbled in her bag, trying to strike a match in the dark.

natural

Don't strike a match near the gas stove!

natural

He smiled, then struck a match to light the campfire as the sun went down.

natural