B2verb 1K

Trigger

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈtrɪɡə(r)/","/ˈtrɪɡəz/","/ˈtrɪɡəd/","/ˈtrɪɡərɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈtrɪɡər/","/ˈtrɪɡərz/","/ˈtrɪɡərd/","/ˈtrɪɡərɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Trigger

to make something happen suddenly

In simple words: To cause something to happen.

Trigger in a sentence

• Nuts can trigger off a violent allergic reaction.
• The incident triggered protests across the country.
• A wide range of emotionally stressful events may trigger a relapse.
• Her case triggered a wave of support around the world.
• Even the smell of oranges can trigger her migraine.
• He has a brain disorder that can trigger off convulsive fits.
• to trigger an alarm
• Sometimes, the slightest things trigger me because they remind me of my mum.

How to use Trigger

Commonly used in both casual and formal contexts. Often used to describe a cause-and-effect relationship, especially in psychology or discussions about emotions. Avoid when discussing less serious or trivial matters.

Grammar pattern

trigger + object

Memory hint

Think of a gun trigger — when you pull it, something happens.

Related words

Collocations with Trigger

• trigger a response
• trigger an alarm
• trigger emotions
• trigger a memory
• trigger a reaction

Synonyms for Trigger

• set off, set something off

Opposites of Trigger

• calm
• deactivate
• stop

Common mistakes with Trigger

• Using 'trigger' without an object (e.g. 'The noise triggered' instead of 'The noise triggered a reaction').
• Confusing with 'triggered' as a noun.
• Mixing up with 'impact' or 'affect' too broadly.

Frequently asked questions about Trigger

What does Trigger mean?

To cause something to happen.

What is the definition of Trigger?

to make something happen suddenly

How do you use Trigger in a sentence?

Nuts can trigger off a violent allergic reaction.

Can you give another example of Trigger?

The incident triggered protests across the country.

What are synonyms for Trigger?

Common alternatives include set off, set something off.

What is the opposite of Trigger?

Opposite meanings include calm, deactivate, stop.

What words go with Trigger?

It commonly pairs with trigger a response, trigger an alarm, trigger emotions, trigger a memory, trigger a reaction.

What are common mistakes when using Trigger?

Using 'trigger' without an object (e.g. 'The noise triggered' instead of 'The noise triggered a reaction'). Confusing with 'triggered' as a noun. Mixing up with 'impact' or 'affect' too broadly.

How do you pronounce Trigger?

US: /["/ˈtrɪɡər/","/ˈtrɪɡərz/","/ˈtrɪɡərd/","/ˈtrɪɡərɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈtrɪɡə(r)/","/ˈtrɪɡəz/","/ˈtrɪɡəd/","/ˈtrɪɡərɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Trigger?

Commonly used in both casual and formal contexts. Often used to describe a cause-and-effect relationship, especially in psychology or discussions about emotions. Avoid when discussing less serious or trivial matters.

What CEFR level is Trigger?

"Trigger" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.