This is the 4858th most frequent Japanese word.
炎上
"炎上" means "online flaming" or "a situation where someone or something draws widespread criticism or backlash, often on social media."
Literal meaning: the word '炎上' directly refers to being engulfed in flames, describing a physical fire.
その家は火事で炎上しました。
The house erupted in flames due to a fire.
Figurative meaning in modern slang: '炎上' is used to describe a topic or content gaining negative attention extensively online.
彼の投稿がソーシャルメディアで炎上しました。
His post ignited controversy on social media.
Extended usage: '炎上' metaphorically represents widespread dissatisfaction or anger in social groups.