spark a change

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spark a change" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the origin of some kind of change or transformation. For example, "The donation of money to the community center helped to spark a change in the way services were provided to those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

It could only take a few more poorly designed cuts such as the "bedroom tax" to spark a change in attitudes to benefit cuts.

Independent

Yet it is not the construction of a modern facility that will spark a change in the nature of English soccer.

The New York Times

Countries frequently put themselves in hock for the glory of hosting sporting festivals whose legacy is soon forgotten, while boycotts rarely spark a change in the behavior of the offending party.

The New York Times

The local authority brought the legal challenge in a Californian court – a move which could spark a change of tack for UK authorities attempting to unmask anonymous Twitter users.

The Guardian

But a two-round presidential election on February 8th and 15th in the Greek-Cypriots' republic in the south could, with a lot of luck, spark a change.And the stakes have risen.

The Economist

And how expensive must electricity be to spark a change?

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Going to church sparked a change.

The New York Times

"Theres more to sparking a change than trolling on social media.

The Guardian - Music

The incident that sparked a change in their relationship might be considered bovine intervention.

The New York Times - Style

Four years later, Williams and the recruits who entered with him have sparked a change that is evident this season.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm proud that we sparked a change in the law," said Paige Santell, the Galveston County assistant district attorney.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spark a change" when you want to emphasize the beginning or initiation of a notable shift, especially one that can grow or spread.

Common error

While "spark a change" is widely understood, it can sound less formal than alternatives like "catalyze reform" or "initiate progress" /s/initiate+progress. Consider your audience and choose the most appropriate register.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spark a change" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase. It indicates the action of initiating or setting off a transformation. As Ludwig AI states, it is appropriate in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spark a change" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe the initiation of a transformation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Science, and while generally neutral in tone, consider more formal alternatives for academic or professional contexts. Remember that "spark a change" emphasizes the beginning of a shift, implying potential for growth, as showcased in Ludwig's examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ignite transformation

Replaces 'spark' with 'ignite' and 'change' with 'transformation', emphasizing a more dramatic beginning.

prompt a shift

Uses 'prompt' in place of 'spark' and 'shift' to indicate a slight alteration.

initiate progress

Substitutes 'spark' with 'initiate' and 'change' with 'progress', suggesting a forward movement.

trigger innovation

Uses 'trigger' instead of 'spark' and 'innovation' to imply a new development being initiated.

foster development

Replaces 'spark' with 'foster' and 'change' with 'development', highlighting a nurturing role in the change.

catalyze reform

Substitutes 'spark' with 'catalyze' and 'change' with 'reform', implying acceleration and improvement.

generate momentum

Replaces both words to convey the creation of a force or impetus.

set in motion a new course

Rephrases the entire expression to emphasize a change in direction.

give rise to alteration

Employs a more formal tone and vocabulary compared to "spark a change".

be the genesis of evolution

Implies a slower and more gradual development. Uses fancier vocabulary

FAQs

How can I use "spark a change" in a sentence?

You can use "spark a change" to describe an event, action, or idea that initiates a significant shift. For example, "The new policy helped to "spark a change" in the company's culture."

What are some alternatives to "spark a change"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "trigger innovation", "initiate progress", or "foster development".

Is "spark a change" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, "spark a change" might be considered less formal than alternatives like "catalyze reform". Consider your audience and the specific requirements of your academic writing.

What's the difference between "spark a change" and "cause a change"?

"Spark a change" emphasizes the initiation or beginning of a change, whereas "cause a change" /s/cause+a+change simply indicates that something resulted in a change. "Spark" implies a sense of excitement or potential growth.