fight fire with fire

/fˈaɪt fˈaɪə wɪð fˈaɪə/

/fˈaɪt fˈaɪɚ wɪð fˈaɪɚ/

[phrase]

to fight fire with fire

[PHRASE]

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.

Examples

1. And in a bid to rescue their business, their answer at the time was to fight fire with fire.

2. Crews also fight fire with fire, burning ahead of a blaze so there's no unburnt kindling to catch.

3. But you can fight fire with fire by sending this video to three people you know, and encouraging them to do the same.

4. So rather than inject patients with just the code, another approach is more akin to fighting fire with fire.