Translation guide
How to express that something starts burning, either accidentally or intentionally, in natural Japanese.
Something catches fire by accident, often due to a spark, overheating, or carelessness.
Literally 'fire attaches'. The most common and neutral way to say something catches fire, often accidentally.
油に火がついた。
The oil caught fire.
ストーブの近くに置いた紙に火がついた。
The paper left near the heater caught fire.
Someone deliberately causes something to catch fire, like lighting a match or starting a campfire.
Something like a trend, idea, or emotion spreads rapidly like fire.
Same phrase as accidental fire, but used figuratively for trends or emotions catching on.
その動画はSNSで火がついた。
That video caught fire on social media.
The English phrase 'catch fire' cannot be directly translated word-for-word. Use the expressions above depending on whether it's accidental or intentional.
火を捕まえる
catch fire (literal, unnatural)
Means 'to ignite' or 'catch fire' from a spark or flame. Often used in technical or safety contexts.
ガソリンは引火しやすい。
Gasoline catches fire easily.
Means 'to start burning'. Emphasizes the beginning of combustion.
落ち葉が突然燃え出した。
The fallen leaves suddenly caught fire.
Literally 'fire comes out'. Used when flames appear, often from a device or due to a malfunction.
コンセントから火が出た。
Fire came out of the outlet.
Literally 'attach fire'. The standard way to say 'set fire to' or 'light' something.
彼はたき火に火をつけた。
He lit the bonfire.
ろうそくに火をつけてください。
Please light the candle.
Means 'to ignite' or 'light' in a more formal or technical sense, like lighting a stove or engine.
ガスコンロを点火する。
Light the gas stove.
Transitive verb meaning 'to burn' something. Focuses on the act of burning rather than just starting the fire.
彼は古い手紙を燃やした。
He burned the old letters.
Means 'to blaze up' or 'flare up'. Used for emotions like passion or anger.
彼の心に怒りが燃え上がった。
Anger flared up in his heart.