broil up
C1 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To start or get mixed up in a big, messy argument or fight.
Literal meaning: To heat up intensely (from cooking) — extended to describe the heat of conflict or anger building up.
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
informal
To develop into or cause a heated argument or violent conflict.
"A minor dispute over land boundaries broiled up into a bitter legal battle."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Largely archaic. Rarely used in contemporary English. Based on the older sense of 'broil' (a noisy quarrel or brawl). Learners may encounter it in older literature but should use 'flare up' or 'blow up' in modern contexts.
Commonly used with
trouble conflict quarrel dispute tension
Forms
Base
broil up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
broils up
he/she/it
Past simple
broiled up
yesterday
Past participle
broiled up
have + pp
-ing form
broiling up
continuous
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