as a detonator

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a detonator" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is being described as a trigger or catalyst for an event or reaction, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The new policy acted as a detonator for the changes in the company's structure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

US authorities are now examining a badly damaged syringe which was allegedly used as a detonator.

The Guardian

His brother, Salem Ziu, told me that he thinks Mahdi used a small patch of TNT, the kind Libyans use to kill fish, as a detonator.

The New York Times - Magazine

The manual also offered detailed recipes for making bombs, including instructions on when to shake the chemicals and how to use a wristwatch as a detonator.

The New York Times

He told me that Harvest Evangelism had chosen Elk River as a "detonator city" through which, ultimately, the nation will be turned to Jesus Christ.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mediaite is more sceptical, arguing that the substance, PETN, has a "dismal record" as "the star of the show" because it's normally used as a detonator, not the primary explosive.

The Economist

The other man honed a kitchen knife against a stone, sliced off an inchlong fuse, wrapped it in a piece of aluminum and strapped on a match as a detonator.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

When activated, thermal detonators have twice the range and power as a regular detonator.

WikiHow

Even without explosives, a popular type of explosive device can be made from common household items including gasoline, a soda can and a plastic water bottle, with the innards of a cellphone as a remote detonator.

The New York Times

Later, the filing said, he identified the device as a smoke detonator that releases smoke during flight so a rocket would stay visible.

Los Angeles Times

Maassen said Germany had avoided a big attack so far thanks to the successful work of security agencies and luck such as a bomb detonator not working properly on one or two occasions.

Vice

Steven Bishop, 41, used encrypted apps and forums on the dark web as he gathered material including a detonator and instructions to make explosives.

The Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a detonator" when you want to emphasize the triggering or initiating role of something, particularly in metaphorical contexts where something sets off a larger reaction or event.

Common error

Avoid using "as a detonator" in contexts where the triggering action is too subtle or indirect. It's most effective when the initiating effect is clear and forceful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a detonator" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase acting as an adverbial. It modifies a verb or clause to describe how something initiates or triggers a subsequent event or reaction. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, where the phrase often describes the triggering action in different scenarios.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

21%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a detonator" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase, primarily functioning as an adverbial to describe something acting as a trigger or catalyst. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It appears most frequently in News & Media, Science and Wiki contexts, signifying a neutral register. The related phrases like "serving as a trigger" and "acting as a catalyst" offer similar semantic meanings, though with subtle differences in emphasis. While effective for highlighting the triggering action, overuse or application in too subtle contexts should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serving as a trigger

Emphasizes the action of initiating an event or process.

acting as a catalyst

Highlights the acceleration or enabling of a reaction.

functioning as an initiator

Focuses on the starting point of a sequence or action.

working as a spark

Suggests a sudden and energetic beginning.

being a precursor to

Implies a development leading to a later event.

operating as a stimulus

Highlights the encouragement or instigation of an activity.

serving as a launchpad

Suggests a starting point for advancement or progress.

acting as a prime mover

Focuses on the primary agent causing an action or change.

being instrumental in

Emphasizes the crucial role in bringing about a result.

contributing as a catalyst

Highlights the phrase's role in facilitating transformation.

FAQs

How can I use "as a detonator" in a sentence?

You can use "as a detonator" to describe something that initiates a larger event or reaction. For example, "The scandal acted as a detonator for widespread political reform."

What phrases are similar to "as a detonator"?

Alternatives include "serving as a trigger", "acting as a catalyst", or "functioning as an initiator".

Is it appropriate to use "as a detonator" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, be mindful of the metaphorical intensity. In highly formal contexts, consider alternatives like "being instrumental in" for a more understated tone.

When is it best to use "as a detonator" metaphorically?

It's most effective when you want to emphasize the sudden or impactful nature of the triggering event. It suggests a rapid and significant consequence following the initial action.