불에 기름을 붓다
그는 실수를 저질렀고, 거기에 거짓말까지 해서 불에 기름을 부었다.
He made a mistake and then lied about it, making things even worse.
To worsen an already bad or difficult situation, often by adding more problems or mistakes.
화재가 난 집에 기름을 붓는 격이었다.
It was like pouring oil on a fire in a burning house.
그는 이미 늦은 시간에 전화를 해서 불에 기름을 부었다.
He called at such a late hour, making the situation even worse.
Commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts, though the figurative meaning is more prevalent.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use this idiom
Use this idiom when someone's actions exacerbate an already tense or difficult situation. It implies that the person's behavior is counterproductive and harmful.
Gold Rule
Literal vs. Figurative Meaning
While the phrase literally means 'to pour oil on fire,' it is almost always used figuratively to describe worsening a problem.
Word Origin
The phrase combines '불' (fire) and '기름' (oil), which literally means 'to pour oil on fire.' The imagery of adding fuel to a flame to intensify a fire metaphorically extends to worsening any problematic situation.
Usage Notes
This idiom is used when someone's actions unintentionally or intentionally make a difficult situation even more severe. It is often used in social or interpersonal contexts.