spark off
Trigger into action
To spark off is to cause something to begin, especially suddenly or dramatically: The assassination sparked off a war, Her comment sparked off a heated debate.
The phrase emphasizes the triggering moment—the spark that ignites a larger reaction.
Often interchangeable with simply spark, though spark off feels more emphatic about the initiating event.
Urge toward action
- instigateCause to begin
- inflameIntensify emotion or irritation
- fomentProvoke or stir up
- agitateDisturb or provoke
rouse · antagonize · goad · enrage · infuriate · irritate · anger · confrontation
To set in motion
- activateCause to function
- detonateCause to explode
- catalyzeAccelerate a process
- precipitateHeadlong and reckless
launch · commence · begin · start · chain reaction · cascade · sequence · explosion
Start a blaze
- flameBurning gas made visible
- fireCombustion with flames
- combustionExothermic reaction with oxygen
- blazeIntense burning fire
burn · flare-up · smolder · conflagration · torch · enkindle · matchstick · lighter
incite
Urge toward action
agitate · rouse · antagonize · goad · enrage · infuriate · irritate · anger · confrontation · conflict
initiate
To set in motion
precipitate · launch · commence · begin · start · chain reaction · cascade · sequence · explosion · event
kindle
Start a blaze
- flameBurning gas made visible
- fireCombustion with flames
- combustionExothermic reaction with oxygen
blaze · burn · flare-up · smolder · conflagration · torch · enkindle · matchstick · lighter · ignition
motivate
Cause to act
excite · awaken · spur · animate · invigorate · enthuse · arouse · uplift · empower · creativity
spark offput an end to
Cause to cease permanently
bring to an end · terminate · end · conclude · stop