Touch off

usgb
verb

To start or trigger something, especially an event or process.

His controversial speech touched off a debate among the audience.
Visual representation of "touch off" - To start or trigger something, especially an event or process

Often appears as...

  • touch off a debate
  • touch off a riot
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "touch off"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

Often used metaphorically to imply something is the starting point of a larger event.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Her resignation touched off a series of departures at the company.
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Context Sensitivity

Understanding the context is crucial to knowing whether it implies conflict or a neutral event.

Illustration for Context Sensitivity
A simple comment touched off the argument at the dinner table.
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Not Literal

It doesn't mean someone physically touched something; it's more about causation.

Illustration for Not Literal
The new law touched off widespread protests across the nation.
Visual representation of the word "Touch off"

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