1.
going up in flames
A building or object being engulfed in fire.
建物が炎上した。
The building went up in flames.
2.
online controversy, flaming
A situation where a person or organization receives massive criticism on social media, often due to a controversial statement or action.
あの発言でSNSが炎上した。
That comment caused a firestorm on social media.
炎上を恐れて投稿を控える。
I refrain from posting for fear of getting flamed.
INTERNET SLANG:
The social media meaning (sense 2) developed from the original meaning of "going up in flames." It describes situations where negative comments flood in rapidly, like a fire spreading.
COLLOCATIONS:
- SNSで炎上する: to be flamed on social media
- 炎上を招く: to invite controversy
- 炎上商法: controversy marketing