Spark off Meaning in English
expression
ˈspɑɹk/ /ˈɔf
SPARK-awf
spˈɑːk/ /ˈɒf
SPAHK-of
Definition
To cause something to start suddenly, especially a discussion, event, or strong reaction.
Usage & Nuances
"Spark off" is often used for negative or dramatic beginnings, such as arguments or social unrest, but not for small daily actions. Common with nouns like 'debate', 'crisis', or 'conflict'. It is more formal than simply 'start'.
Spanish: desencadenar - provocar - originarPortuguese (BR): desencadear - provocar - causarPortuguese (PT): desencadear - provocar - causarChinese (Simplified): 引发 - 激起 - 触发Chinese (Traditional): 引發 - 激起 - 觸發Hindi: शुरू करना - भड़कानाArabic: يُشعل - يثير - يُسببBengali: উদ্দীপিত করা - উস্কে দেওয়াRussian: спровоцировать - вызватьJapanese: 引き起こす - 火をつける（比喩的）Vietnamese: châm ngòi - gây raKorean: 촉발하다 - 유발하다Turkish: tetiklemek - ateşlemek (mecazi)Urdu: بھڑکانا - شروع کرنا (اچانک)Indonesian: memicu - memicu terjadinya
Example Sentences
The news report sparked off a big debate.
basic
His words sparked off anger in the crowd.
basic
The accident sparked off safety concerns.
basic
Her sudden comment sparked off a heated argument at dinner.
natural
The politician's promise sparked off a wave of protests across the country.
natural
That movie really sparked off an interesting discussion between us.
natural