spark trepidation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spark trepidation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that causes feelings of fear or anxiety. Example: "The sudden change in the weather sparked trepidation among the hikers, who were unprepared for a storm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The changes sparked trepidation in some quarters.

The New York Times

Trump's warm rhetorical embrace of Putin, who he said had given him an "extremely strong and powerful" denial that Russia assaulted U.S. democracy, marked an extraordinary capstone to the first formal meeting between the current leaders of the world's nuclear superpowers and sparked trepidation and horror among many in Washington and around the globe.

The Washington Post

Trump's warm rhetorical embrace of Putin, who he said had given him an 'extremely strong and powerful' denial that Russia assaulted U.S. democracy, marked an extraordinary capstone to the first formal meeting between the current leaders of the world's nuclear superpowers and sparked trepidation and horror among many in Washington and around the globe.

The Washington Post

So how do you monetise an intangible combination of excitement and trepidation sparked by the overwhelming awe of talking to the whole world?

The Guardian - Opinion

Indeed, the trepidation Ms. Sparks feels as she prepares to receive her divinity degree on Sunday is widely shared among graduating seminarians and newly ordained clergy members.

The New York Times

Facebook then notifies the tag-ee that there's a new photo of them online, which inevitably sparks a moment of trepidation as they fire up their browser to see if they've been captured sporting a double chin.

Huffington Post

Nowadays the city of a million people, say some residents, feels like a powder keg waiting with trepidation for a spark.During the upheaval that began, along with the rest of the Arab world's, in 2011, Taiz was a hot spot.

The Economist

At the start of the 2017 WNBA Finals, Cheryl Reeve, Minnesota Lynx head coach, was asked if she felt any trepidation about entering a five-game series versus the Los Angeles Sparks.

Forbes

With trepidation.

The Guardian

Their trepidation is understandable.

The New York Times - Sports

There is some trepidation".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spark trepidation" when you want to emphasize that a specific event or action directly caused a feeling of fear or anxiety. It's stronger than simply saying something is worrying.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "spark trepidation" has a somewhat formal tone. Avoid using it in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "cause worry" or "make anxious" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spark trepidation" functions as a verb phrase, where "spark" acts as a transitive verb causing (or initiating) the noun "trepidation". Ludwig confirms this usage across multiple examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spark trepidation" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that effectively communicates the initiation of fear or anxiety. Ludwig provides examples primarily from news and media sources, indicating its usage in more formal or analytical writing. While its meaning is clear, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate in informal contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is well-formed and understood, making it a valuable tool for precise communication when emphasizing the source of unease.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause apprehension

Focuses on the creation of a feeling of worry or unease.

incite anxiety

Emphasizes the stimulation of anxious feelings.

generate unease

Highlights the production of a feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

arouse fear

Directly points to the instigation of fear.

instill worry

Focuses on placing a feeling of worry within someone.

prompt concern

Highlights the action of urging or provoking worry and concern.

foster disquiet

Emphasizes the cultivation of a state of anxiety or restlessness.

stir up dread

Focuses on the creation of a strong feeling of fear or apprehension.

trigger alarm

Highlights the action of setting off a sudden feeling of fear or concern.

create anxiety

Focuses on the act of producing a state of worry or nervousness.

FAQs

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

You can use "spark trepidation" to describe an event or situation that causes a feeling of fear or anxiety. For example, "The company's announcement of potential layoffs "sparked trepidation" among the employees".

What are some synonyms for "spark trepidation"?

Alternatives to "spark trepidation" include "cause apprehension", "incite anxiety", or "generate unease". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "spark trepidation" or "cause trepidation"?

"Spark trepidation" implies a more sudden or immediate onset of fear, while "cause trepidation" is a more general term. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the immediacy of the feeling.

What's the difference between "trepidation" and "fear"?

"Trepidation" suggests a state of anxiety or apprehension about something that might happen. "Fear" is a more direct and intense emotion experienced in the face of immediate danger or threat. "Spark trepidation" implies causing a more anticipatory anxiety than outright fear.