The phrase "adds fuel to the fire" is often used to describe exacerbating an already volatile situation. There are numerous synonyms available to convey the same meaning, including "stir the pot," "fan the flames," "pour gasoline on the fire," "ignite tensions," "amplify uproar," "incite conflict," "inflame passions," and "add to the chaos." All of these alternatives can be used in many different contexts where it is crucial to describe the act of making an existing problem worse instead of trying to defuse it. They are often utilized in journalism, politics, and other situations where it is essential to describe a situation with careful precision.