Touch off
verb
To start or trigger something, especially an event or process.
His controversial speech touched off a debate among the audience.
Often appears as...
- touch off a debate
- touch off a riot
verb
To detonate or set off an explosive device.
The demolition crew touched off the dynamite to bring down the old building.
Often appears as...
- touch off a bomb
- touch off dynamite
verb
To start or trigger something, especially an event or process.
His controversial speech touched off a debate among the audience.
Often appears as...
- touch off a debate
- touch off a riot
verb
To detonate or set off an explosive device.
The demolition crew touched off the dynamite to bring down the old building.
Often appears as...
- touch off a bomb
- touch off dynamite
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.
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.
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.
Never forget "Touch off"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension