Set the Thames on fire
Idioms & PhrasesHARD
to do something extraordinary or remarkable (often used ironically)
Set the Thames on fire
Idioms & PhrasesHARD
to do something extraordinary or remarkable (often used ironically)
Learning Progress
Examples
"Colonization of planet Mars is like setting the Thames on fire — a huge, unprecedented feat."
"He won't set the Thames on fire with his performance, but it will be solid."
Mnemonic Trick
British idiom: doing something so remarkable it would 'set' the famous Thames ablaze.
Cultural Context
Often used ironically to downplay expectations.
Source: Idioms & PhrasesAdded: 11/13/2025
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