Cool MateIgnite
UK //ɪɡˈnaɪt//US //ɪɡˈnaɪt//
Definition
To start a fire or cause something to begin to burn.
In simple words: To start a fire or to cause something to start.
Examples
- The campfire was easy to ignite using dry leaves and sticks.
- His speech was able to ignite the passion in the audience.
- They tried to ignite the fireworks well before midnight.
- The chef used a lighter to ignite the fuel in the stove.
- The news article might ignite a public debate about climate change.
Usage notes
Often used for literal fires but can also describe sparking ideas or emotions. Avoid in overly formal contexts.
Grammar pattern
ignite + object
Memory hint
Think of 'ignite' as 'igniting' a match to start a fire.
Collocations
- ignite a fire
- ignite passion
- ignite interest
- ignite controversy
- ignite anger
Synonyms
- kindle
- light
- spark
- arouse
- trigger
Antonyms
- extinguish
- douse
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'ignition', which is the mechanism that starts a fire.
- Used incorrectly in passive form; 'ignited by' should specify the agent.
- Thinking it can only be used for physical fire.