Take fire Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To catch on fire or begin burning, usually unintentionally. It can also mean to suddenly become the focus of attack (especially with weapons) in a military context.
Usage & Nuances
More common in literary, descriptive, or technical contexts than everyday speech. Collocates with objects like 'wood', 'house', 'car', etc. In military English, 'take fire' means to come under attack by gunfire. Not the same as 'set fire' (to cause fire intentionally).
Example Sentences
Be careful or the paper might take fire.
basic
The dry grass quickly took fire under the sun.
basic
When the stove fell, the kitchen took fire.
basic
Suddenly, the whole engine took fire and smoke filled the air.
natural
The enemy bunker took fire from our artillery as soon as we spotted it.
natural
Don’t leave oily rags near the heater—they can easily take fire.
natural