fight fire with fire

Определение и Значение "[fight] fire with fire"

to fight fire with fire

to use methods or tactics similar to those of one's opponent in a fight or argument

What is the origin of the idiom "fight fire with fire" and when to use it?

The idiom "fight fire with fire" has its roots in firefighting techniques. Historically, when combating wildfires, firefighters sometimes employed a tactic called controlled burning or backfire. By intentionally setting a smaller, controlled fire in the path of an approaching wildfire, they could burn off the vegetation and other flammable materials, creating a barrier. This controlled fire would consume the fuel needed for the larger wildfire, preventing it from advancing further. It is used when someone decides to respond to a problem or adversary by using tactics or methods that are similar in nature to what they are opposing.

Пример

When faced with a rival company's aggressive marketing campaign, our company had to fight fire with fire by launching an even more compelling advertising blitz.

He had fought fire with fire in the debate, matching his opponent's aggressive tone.

When addressing cyberattacks on their network, the cybersecurity team knew they had to fight fire with fire, employing advanced security measures to counter the sophisticated hackers.