[fight] fire with fire
1
to use methods or tactics similar to those of one's opponent in a fight or argument
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.
- 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.
- The detective decided to fight fire with fire by using cunning tactics to outsmart the cunning criminal.
- 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.
- She fights fire with fire, always ready with a sharp comeback when someone tries to criticize her.
- He had fought fire with fire in the debate, matching his opponent's aggressive tone.