Touch off
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphorical Use
Often used metaphorically to imply something is the starting point of a larger event.
Her resignation touched off a series of departures at the company.
Pro Tip 2/3Context Sensitivity
Understanding the context is crucial to knowing whether it implies conflict or a neutral event.
A simple comment touched off the argument at the dinner table.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
It doesn't mean someone physically touched something; it's more about causation.
The new law touched off widespread protests across the nation.
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