set off a wave of

USAGE SUMMARY

"set off a wave of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe an event that initiates a chain reaction of related events, leading to a larger impact. For example: The closure of the factory set off a wave of unemployment throughout the town.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The border tax has already set off a wave of activity, and nobody has even introduced a bill.

Huffington Post

This set off a wave of emigration.

The Economist

His death set off a wave of mourning nationwide.

The New York Times

That set off a wave of hijackings and airport shootouts.

The New York Times - Books

The blockades set off a wave of traffic chaos.

The New York Times

It became America's first blockbuster exhibit, and set off a wave of "mammoth fever".

The New Yorker

Mr. Singh's death "set off a wave of mourning nationwide," Mr. Pandya wrote.

The New York Times

The show set off a wave of scattered but intense panic.

The New York Times - Magazine

The new single currency has also set off a wave of cross-border mergers and acquisitions.

The Economist

These actions set off a wave of anti-British outrage that has barely subsided.

The New York Times

That set off a wave of panic buying throughout the nation.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set off a wave of" when you want to emphasize the breadth and impact of the consequences following an initial event. It's most effective when describing a chain reaction that affects a large group or area.

Common error

While "set off a wave of" is a vivid expression, overuse can diminish its impact. Consider simpler alternatives like "caused" or "led to" when the chain reaction is less significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set off a wave of" functions as a causative expression. It highlights an initial event that triggers a series of subsequent, related occurrences. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Academia

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The expression "set off a wave of" is a commonly used phrase, particularly within news and media, to describe an event that triggers a series of subsequent actions or reactions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and effective in conveying widespread impact. It's crucial to use it when you want to emphasize the breadth and significance of the consequences following an initial event, ensuring the chain reaction affects a considerable group or area. While alternatives exist, they might not always capture the same sense of magnitude and reach. Overuse can diminish its impact, so consider simpler alternatives when the chain reaction is less substantial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sparked a series of

Focuses on the initiation of a chain reaction, emphasizing the start of the sequence.

triggered a cascade of

Emphasizes the sequential and escalating nature of the resulting events.

initiated a chain reaction of

Highlights the interconnectedness of the events that follow the initial trigger.

led to a surge of

Indicates a sudden increase or rise in something as a result of the initial action.

caused an outbreak of

Suggests a sudden and widespread occurrence, often used for negative events or phenomena.

unleashed a torrent of

Implies a powerful and uncontrolled release of something.

prompted an upswing in

Focuses on a positive trend or increase resulting from a specific cause.

catalyzed a flurry of

Suggests that one event speeds up related events that follow.

resulted in a series of

A more general way to show the sequence caused by an initial trigger.

gave rise to a swell of

Indicates the gradual growth and intensification of something.

FAQs

How can I use "set off a wave of" in a sentence?

Use "set off a wave of" to describe an event that triggers a series of subsequent, related events. For example, "The announcement "set off a wave of" speculation among investors".

What are some alternatives to using "set off a wave of"?

You can use alternatives such as "sparked a series of", "triggered a cascade of", or "led to a surge of" depending on the specific context.

Is there a subtle difference between "set off a wave of" and "caused a series of"?

"Set off a wave of" implies a more widespread and impactful chain reaction, while "caused a series of" is more general and doesn't necessarily convey the same magnitude. Consider the context to choose the more appropriate phrase.

When is it best to avoid using the phrase "set off a wave of"?

Avoid using "set off a wave of" if the consequences are minimal or isolated. In such cases, simpler verbs like "caused", "initiated", or "prompted" might be more fitting.