it has sparked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it has sparked" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something has caused or initiated a reaction, interest, or discussion. Example: "The recent discovery in renewable energy technology has sparked a renewed interest in sustainable practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Whatever its significance, though, it has sparked a worldwide discussion of philanthropy, which was in many ways its goal.

The New York Times

But it has sparked an uproar.

The Economist

It has sparked an international outcry.

The Guardian

But the debates it has sparked certainly are.

The Economist

The debate it has sparked may be having an impact.

The New York Times - Sports

The plaque is so big it has sparked a debate.

The New York Times - Sports

But it has sparked a fresh debate about the genre.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It has sparked perhaps predictable outrage among some cyclists.

The Guardian - Tech

It has sparked an angry response from gay rights campaigners.

The Guardian

It has sparked anxiety among undocumented immigrants and citizens alike.

The Guardian - Opinion

It has sparked controversy among transfusion experts and blood banks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it has sparked" to introduce a consequence or reaction that is notable but not necessarily extreme. It's effective for highlighting the beginning of a trend, debate, or movement.

Common error

Avoid overusing "it has sparked" in passive voice. Instead of "Controversy has been sparked by the new law", write "The new law has sparked controversy" for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "it has sparked" is to act as a verb phrase indicating that something (the subject 'it') has initiated or caused a particular reaction, debate, or consequence. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it has sparked" is a versatile and widely used phrase, especially within news and media, to indicate that something has initiated a reaction, discussion, or event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. When writing, consider the nuance you want to convey – whether you're emphasizing a strong or mild effect – and choose a suitable alternative if needed. Be mindful of passive constructions for more direct and impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it has triggered

Emphasizes a more immediate and direct causal reaction.

it has generated

Highlights the creation or production of something as a result.

it has provoked

Suggests a deliberate elicitation of a response, often negative.

it has incited

Implies a stronger, more forceful instigation of action or feeling.

it has ignited

Conveys a sense of sudden and intense initiation.

it has fomented

Indicates the encouragement of discord or trouble.

it has galvanized

Stresses the act of spurring someone into action.

it has elicited

Focuses on drawing out a response or reaction from someone.

it has prompted

Indicates a suggestion or motivation to do something.

it has initiated

Emphasizes the beginning or commencement of a process or action.

FAQs

How can I use "it has sparked" in a sentence?

Use "it has sparked" to indicate that something has caused or initiated a specific reaction, discussion, or event. For example, "The documentary has sparked a national debate about ethics."

What's the difference between "it has sparked" and "it has triggered"?

"It has sparked" suggests initiating something, while "it has triggered" implies a more immediate and direct reaction. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What are some alternatives to "it has sparked"?

Alternatives include "it has generated", "it has provoked", or "it has ignited", depending on the specific context and the strength of the reaction you want to emphasize.

Is "it has sparked" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "it has sparked" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news reporting, academic papers, and business communications. It's a neutral and clear way to indicate causation.