lighting the fuse
- igniteStart burning something
- sparkTiny fiery particle
- matchGame between opponents
- wickFuel-drawing cord
- explosiveProne to sudden detonation
dynamite · firecracker · bomb · countdown · detonation · burning · sizzle · powder · keg · cannon · firework · blast · trigger · tension · anticipation · danger · rebellion · starting
initiation of action
lighting the fusesnuffing out
escalation vs. de-escalation
lighting the fusede-escalating
Reducing intensity of conflict
making peace · building bridges · backing down · lowering the temperature · burying the hatchet
caution vs. recklessness
lighting the fuseholding back
Preventing forward movement
playing it safe · keeping the powder dry · letting sleeping dogs lie · biting one's tongue · thinking twice