trigger off

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Definition
  1. Verb (transitive):
    • To cause something to start or happen; to initiate a process or reaction. This verb describes the action of being the direct cause that sets a specific event, series of events, or emotional response into motion.
Usage
  • The verb "trigger off" is used with a direct object (the thing that is started).
  • It often describes starting processes that are rapid, automatic, or difficult to stop once begun, such as chemical reactions, mechanical sequences, emotional responses, or chains of events.
  • It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.
Examples
  • Literal:
    • The pressure switch triggered off the alarm system.
    • A spark from the wiring triggered off the explosion.
  • Figurative:
    • The announcement triggered off a wave of protests across the country.
    • That particular smell triggered off a childhood memory.
Advanced Usage
  • "to trigger off a chain of events": to be the initial cause that starts a series of connected occurrences.
    • The diplomatic incident triggered off a chain of events that led to the conflict.
  • The particle "off" can sometimes be omitted, with "trigger" used alone with the same meaning (e.g., ). However, "trigger off" emphasizes the initiation of the process.
Variants and Related Words
  • Trigger (verb): The base form, often used interchangeably with "trigger off" to mean "to cause to start."
  • Trigger (noun): The device or mechanism that initiates a process (e.g., ). Figuratively, it can be the cause of a reaction (e.g., ).
Synonyms
  • Activate: to make something operational.
  • Set off: to cause something to start, especially suddenly.
  • Spark (off): to be the immediate cause of something, especially something sudden or violent.
  • Precipitate: to cause an event or situation to happen suddenly or unexpectedly.
  • Provoke: to stimulate or give rise to a reaction or emotion, typically a strong or unwelcome one.
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Set off: Very similar in meaning to "trigger off," meaning to cause something to start or operate.
    • The landslide set off a series of tremors.
  • Spark off: Also very similar, meaning to be the cause of something, especially something sudden.
    • His comment sparked off a heated debate.
Related Idioms
  • To be the trigger (for): to be the specific cause or event that starts something.
    • The tax increase was the trigger for the public unrest.
  • To pull the trigger (on something): to make the final decision to start a significant action.
    • After months of research, the company finally pulled the trigger on the new project.
Verb
  1. put in motion or move to act
    • trigger a reaction
    • actuate the circuits

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