it sparked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it sparked" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the initiation of an idea, emotion, or event, often implying that something has been ignited or triggered. Example: "The conversation about climate change sparked a passionate debate among the students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Despite its popularity and wide acceptability, through time it sparked debates among users and providers of health care services.

BMC Nursing

It sparked international criticism of Israel and threatened its previously close ties with Turkey.

Independent

It sparked something.

The New Yorker

"It sparked a fire.

The New York Times - Sports

It sparked a revival.

The New York Times - Sports

Nevertheless, it sparked people's interest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It sparked India.

The Guardian - Sport

It sparked a renaissance.

The New York Times

It sparked an interest in Ancient Rome.

Independent

It sparked the wanderlust I have today.

Independent

It sparked a 2-1 Yankees victory.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it sparked" when you want to convey that something initiated a notable reaction, idea, or event. This phrase is versatile and suitable for various contexts, from describing scientific discoveries to political debates.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "it sparked". Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement and avoid monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it sparked" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of initiating or triggering something. As Ludwig AI explains, the examples show it used to denote the commencement of ideas, debates, or events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it sparked" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe the commencement or initiation of an event, idea, or reaction. As indicated by Ludwig, it's versatile across contexts, but is mainly used in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives may suit academic or professional writing. Ludwig AI provides numerous real-world examples demonstrating its usage. It is crucial to avoid overuse and vary sentence structures to maintain writing quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it triggered

Focuses on the immediate effect or reaction caused.

it ignited

Implies a sudden and intense beginning or escalation.

it prompted

Suggests a direct instigation or encouragement.

it initiated

Emphasizes the formal beginning or commencement of something.

it caused

Indicates a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

it generated

Highlights the production or creation of something as a result.

it instigated

Implies a deliberate initiation, often of conflict or action.

it fueled

Suggests providing the necessary resources or impetus for growth or continuation.

it incited

Implies the encouragement of violent or unlawful behavior.

it set off

Focuses on triggering a chain of events or a reaction.

FAQs

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

You can use "it sparked" to indicate the beginning or cause of something. For example, "The documentary it sparked a renewed interest in environmental conservation".

What are some alternatives to "it sparked"?

Consider using alternatives such as "it triggered", "it ignited", or "it prompted" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it sparked" formal or informal?

"It sparked" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal options might be preferred in highly academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "it sparked" and "it caused"?

"It sparked" often implies a more sudden or energetic beginning, while "it caused" is a more general term for direct causation. For instance, "The speech it sparked a revolution" suggests a more immediate and impactful beginning than "The speech it caused a revolution".