set the world on fire

English

Etymology

With reference to the Bible, the Gospel according to Luke, ch. 12, v.49 Lk.12.49

Pronunciation

• Audio (AU)

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Verb

set the world on fire (third-person singular simple present sets the world on fire, present participle setting the world on fire, simple past and past participle set the world on fire)

1. (idiomatic) To do something sensational.

   Synonym: set the Thames on fire

   • 2011, Fun (lyrics and music), “We Are Young”:

     Tonight
     We are young.
     So let’s set the world on fire.
     We can burn brighter than the sun.

Translations

do something sensational

• Dutch: de wereld met verbazing slaan