sparked discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

"sparked discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation that generated conversation or debate, or to refer to someone initiating a conversation or debate. For example: "The CEO's controversial statement sparked discussion among employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Karunakara's comments sparked discussion on Twitter.

The Guardian

Carolin hoped Magic Mike XXL sparked discussion about body image.

The Guardian - Film

The incident sparked discussion of the consequences of the country's rapid modernization.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The title sparked discussion when it was banned from Apple's App Store, and had to be resubmitted as Endgame: Eurasia.

The Guardian - Tech

Where is Priyamvada Gopal, whose originally-angled freelance contributions to a number of platforms have sparked discussion on everything from Valentine's day to Ralph Miliband's patriotism?

Independent

The rise in oil prices in early 2008 sparked discussion over whether the world was beginning to run out of oil.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The killing has also sparked discussions about the levels of crime in South Africa.

BBC

The death of Hughes has also sparked discussions about player safety.

BBC

And even in her death, Shanbaug seems to have sparked discussions on the "right to die" in the country.

BBC

"It adds fuel to awareness," Barron said of the mass shootings that have sparked discussions about new gun legislation.

Vice

She said some students were unaware of what a terrorist was, which sparked discussions about that term.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add impact to your writing use specific subjects that have "sparked discussion". For example: "The new economic policy sparked discussion among economists." Avoid vague subjects.

Common error

Avoid using "sparked discussion" repeatedly in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "triggered conversation" or "prompted dialogue" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sparked discussion" functions as a verb phrase indicating the initiation of a conversation or debate. It is commonly used to describe how an event, idea, or statement has led to further exchange of ideas. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

21%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sparked discussion" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the initiation of conversation or debate. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English. With high frequency in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, its register is considered neutral and appropriate for various contexts. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "generated debate" or "triggered conversation" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

triggered conversation

Highlights a more informal exchange of ideas.

set off conversation

Indicates a sudden and perhaps unexpected beginning to a conversation.

generated debate

Focuses more specifically on initiating a formal argument or disagreement.

fueled debate

Suggests that something added intensity or energy to an already existing debate.

prompted dialogue

Implies a structured and purposeful discussion.

instigated debate

Indicates a deliberate action to begin a formal argument.

stirred debate

Implies causing a significant reaction and discussion.

ignited controversy

Emphasizes the potential for strong disagreement and public attention.

gave rise to discussion

A more formal way of indicating that something led to discussion.

occasioned discussion

Implies that something created an opportunity for discussion.

FAQs

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

You can use "sparked discussion" to indicate that a particular event, statement, or idea led to a conversation or debate. For example, "The documentary "sparked discussion" about the ethics of artificial intelligence".

What are some alternatives to "sparked discussion"?

Alternatives to "sparked discussion" include "generated debate", "triggered conversation", or "prompted dialogue", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "sparked a discussion" or "sparked discussion"?

Both "sparked a discussion" and "sparked discussion" are grammatically correct, but "sparked discussion" is more concise and commonly used. The choice depends on your preferred writing style and the context.

What's the difference between "sparked discussion" and "incited a riot"?

"Sparked discussion" implies that something led to civil conversation or debate, while "incited a riot" means something provoked violent and uncontrolled public disturbance. They are very different in their implications.