Translation guide
The English phrase 'catching fire' can refer to something literally igniting, or metaphorically to something becoming very popular, exciting, or successful. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both senses.
To start burning; to be set on fire.
To suddenly become very popular, successful, or exciting; to gain momentum.
The same phrase as the literal meaning, but used metaphorically for something 'catching fire' in terms of popularity or excitement.
その曲はSNSで火がついた。
That song caught fire on social media.
燃える (moeru) focuses on the state of burning, while 火がつく (hi ga tsuku) focuses on the moment of ignition. For metaphorical use, 火がつく is more common.
The English phrase 'catch fire' cannot be directly translated word-for-word. Avoid literal translations like 火を捕まえる (hi o tsukamaeru), which is nonsensical.
The paper is catching fire.
Phrase literally meaning 'fire attaches'. Commonly used for something catching fire, especially when ignited by a spark or flame.
枯れ葉に火がついた。
The dead leaves caught fire.
Technical/formal verb meaning 'to ignite' or 'to catch fire', often used for flammable materials.
ガソリンは引火しやすい。
Gasoline catches fire easily.
Formal/technical term for 'ignition' or 'catching fire', often used in scientific or safety contexts.
漏れたガスが発火した。
The leaked gas caught fire.
Loanword from English 'break', meaning to become a hit or to suddenly become popular. Very common in entertainment.
彼の新曲がブレイクした。
His new song caught fire.
Literally 'popularity catches fire'. Emphasizes a sudden surge in popularity.
そのゲームは突然人気に火がついた。
That game suddenly caught fire in popularity.
Plain expression meaning 'to sell suddenly'. Used when a product catches fire commercially.
あの商品が急に売れ始めた。
That product suddenly caught fire (started selling well).
Means 'to spread explosively'. Used for trends or information that catch fire and go viral.
その動画は爆発的に広まった。
That video caught fire and spread explosively.