spark suspicion

USAGE SUMMARY

"spark suspicion" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to cause someone to become suspicious or to raise suspicion. You can use this phrase in a sentence when describing a situation or action that causes suspicion in someone. For example: - Her sudden change in behavior sparked suspicion among her friends. - The missing money from the company's accounts sparked suspicion among the board members. - The mysterious package left on his doorstep sparked suspicion in the neighborhood.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Claims for two lost bags on holiday always spark suspicion, according to insurer Axa.

The Guardian - Money

In fact, they argued, a too-obvious association might spark suspicion among consumers of corporate self-interest.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Le Figaro reported that police were investigating 56 drone sightings across France since 5 October, when the first drone detected over a nuclear site sparked suspicion.

The Guardian

Immediately, the coupling sparked suspicion of a publicity stunt: "It's just publicity.

Huffington Post

The Port Said incident has sparked suspicion that more than just laxness was involved because stadium exits that were normally open had been locked and because security forces refused to intervene despite the fact that the brawl had turned lethal.

Huffington Post

It is thought they were taking photos or filming in the area, sparking suspicions from the police.

Independent

The pretty young wife of the aged Marquis de Fresnois dies in a carriage accident, sparking suspicions of foul play and rumor-mongering from a socialist café owner.

The New Yorker

Players routinely traversed the country with tens of thousands of dollars in cash, sparking suspicions among law enforcement officials of malfeasance or drug dealing.

The New York Times - Sports

The words "retreat" and "orderly legal process" sparked suspicions that the bill was laying the groundwork for the seizure of private homes by eminent domain.

The New York Times

Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig have scrapped plans to shoot their very own Lifetime movie, sparking suspicions the story may have been an April Fools' prank.

The Guardian - Film

Cases of the syndrome have increased in tandem with the Zika outbreak, sparking suspicions it is a complication of the virus, also blamed for causing microcephaly or brain damage in babies born to infected mothers.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spark suspicion" to clearly indicate that a specific action or event leads directly to a feeling of mistrust or doubt. For stronger impact, follow it with the specific reasons why the suspicion arose.

Common error

While effective, "spark suspicion" can become repetitive if overused. Vary your language by using synonyms like "arouse suspicion", "raise doubts", or "trigger skepticism" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spark suspicion" functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It describes the act of initiating or causing a feeling of doubt or mistrust. The examples provided in Ludwig illustrate its use in describing how certain events or actions create suspicion.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spark suspicion" is a grammatically sound and neutrally registered verb phrase used to denote the act of initiating a feeling of doubt or mistrust. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and primarily found within news and media contexts. To maintain writing variety, consider using alternative phrases like "arouse suspicion" or "raise doubts". Remember that specifying the cause of suspicion after using the phrase enhances clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arouse suspicion

Focuses on the act of awakening or stirring up pre-existing doubts or mistrust.

raise doubts

Emphasizes the creation of uncertainty or questioning.

trigger skepticism

Highlights the initiation of a questioning attitude.

prompt wariness

Emphasizes the incitement of caution or guardedness.

generate mistrust

Focuses on the creation of a lack of trust.

instill distrust

Highlights the implanting of disbelief or lack of confidence.

create skepticism

Focuses on the production of a skeptical attitude.

foster doubt

Emphasizes the nurturing or encouraging of uncertainty.

evoke uncertainty

Highlights the calling forth of a lack of sureness.

induce doubt

Focuses on causing or bringing about a feeling of uncertainty.

FAQs

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

Use "spark suspicion" to show that something caused someone to become suspicious. For example, "The unexplained absence of the key witness sparked suspicion among the detectives."

What are some alternatives to "spark suspicion"?

Alternatives include "arouse suspicion", "raise doubts", "trigger skepticism", "generate mistrust", and "instill distrust". The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "spark suspicion" or "raise suspicion"?

Both "spark suspicion" and "raise suspicion" are correct and usable. "Spark" suggests an initial cause, while "raise" suggests an increase in existing suspicion.

Can "spark suspicion" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "spark suspicion" is suitable for formal writing, especially when reporting events or analyzing situations. It's common in news articles and analytical reports. Context determines the best phrase choice.