Meanings
Unknown. Suggested to derive from a misconstrual of temse (“sieve”): thus, to work so vigorously as to heat a sieve by friction. Alternatively, a reference to lightning strikes which sometimes occurred along the Thames, occasionally setting trees on fire or causing death in unusual manner.[1] Otherwise simply by hyperbole, from the impossibility of setting a river on fire.
How to pronounce "set the Thames on fire":
AU
To achieve something amazing but to a nearly-impossible degree; to do something which brings great public acclaim.
Example Sentences
1
She is a brilliant performer, but she didn't set the Thames on fire at her last concert.
2
Although the team played well in the tournament, they didn't set the Thames on fire to win the championship.
3
The company's latest product release didn't set the Thames on fire among consumers.
4
While the novel received positive reviews, it failed to set the Thames on fire in terms of sales.
5
The new restaurant in town has a unique concept, but it will need something special to set the Thames on fire.
