where there's smoke, there's fire
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
If there is a hint of something occurring, it is probably true, although such rumors should be taken with a grain of salt.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
All rumors are true.
Register: humorous
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: A sighting of smoke means that fire is not only possible but rather probable, nearly certain.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “where there's smoke, there's fire” mean?
If there is a hint of something occurring, it is probably true, although such rumors should be taken with a grain of salt.
Is “where there's smoke, there's fire” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.