English idiom

play with fire

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

to take a serious risk that is likely to bring harmful consequences

Word picture

A risky choice is pictured as handling a flame for amusement despite the obvious danger of being burned.

Example

“Skipping every database backup is playing with fire.”

Dictionary details

Component words

play fire

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

put out fires

to deal with urgent problems instead of doing planned work

fight fire with fire

to counter an opponent using the same methods they use

no smoke without fire

rumors or accusations usually contain at least some truth

play for time

to delay deliberately in order to prepare or avoid an immediate outcome

playbook

a set of proven methods, tactics, and moves for a given situation

play hardball

to negotiate or compete aggressively, without compromise

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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