sparks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sparks" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context.
You can use it to refer to the initial signs of excitement, interest, or creativity, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The conversation between the two artists sparked a new wave of inspiration for their upcoming projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Donita Sparks still talks with the vitriol of a jilted lover ready to castrate something, but she's also surprisingly sweet.

The Guardian - Music

The names of the two police officers in the helicopter were released on Sunday with that of the pilot, Captain David Traill, on the day a witness told the Guardian he saw a "shower of sparks" fly out of the helicopter as if a firework had gone off.

The Guardian

Once you have those, then you structure the process around those themes, and you guide the sparks in areas where they would have a big impact.

The New York Times

Unlike Brite Sparks and many others, Upper Crust use new gags each Christmas.

The Guardian

A postcard from an old friend in Denmark sparks memories of a trip, back to the "homeland", that he and his wife made twenty years before.

The Guardian - Books

Take a book that concerns the town or place – it often sparks up conversation with locals and/or travellers.

The Guardian - Travel

These are precisely the same primeval mental sparks that lead to football hooliganism, gang warfare and racism.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Related: EU referendum bill sparks push to allow votes at 16 Sturgeon said: "Polls in Scotland consistently show strong support for EU membership.

The Guardian

For some, this provided a new basis for understanding dreams: they're the sparks and effusions of a system in standby mode – like the crackles of an old TV set cooling down.

The Guardian - Opinion

Certainly, bright sparks will enjoy Jimmy Coates' enhanced thought process as he calculates how to eliminate the delicately-designed chain reaction and ensure the nitro-glycerine crates go up separately, rather than in one huge, coordinated eruption.

The Guardian

It's when young emerging British and European performance-makers such as Jamal Harewood, Sleepwalk Collective and Figs in Wigs get the chance to meet on a daily basis over an entire week with those making theatre in other parts of the world that sparks fly, imaginations are ignited and collaborations born.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sparks" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being ignited or initiated. For instance, "The debate sparks a wider discussion about climate change" provides a clear understanding of the result.

Common error

Avoid using "sparks" too frequently in formal or academic writing. While acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound less sophisticated. Opt for more precise verbs like "initiates", "triggers", or "catalyzes" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "sparks" is as a noun, referring to small flashes of light or energy. It also functions as a verb, indicating the action of initiating or triggering something. Ludwig AI's analysis, along with provided examples, confirms these usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "sparks" is grammatically sound and commonly used, primarily as a noun or a verb. Ludwig AI confirms this, based on its analysis of numerous examples. The term is frequently found in news and media, indicating its relevance in contemporary discussions. While versatile, it's important to use "sparks" judiciously in formal writing and to ensure the context clearly conveys the intended meaning. Related terms like "ignites" or "triggers" can offer more precise alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ignites

This term suggests a more forceful or sudden initiation compared to "sparks".

arouses

This term implies the awakening of a feeling or interest, differing from the more general ignition sense of "sparks".

stirs

This term indicates causing a slight movement or excitement, less intense than "sparks".

awakens

This term refers to waking someone or something up, differing from the ignition or activation sense of "sparks".

causes

This term indicates a direct result or effect, while "sparks" implies more of an initial trigger.

inspires

This term means to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, different from the initiating action of "sparks".

generates

This term suggests creating or producing something, whereas "sparks" often refers to an initial action.

fosters

This term means to encourage or promote growth, different from the immediate ignition implied by "sparks".

attracts

This term denotes drawing something in, diverging from the ignition or triggering sense of "sparks".

exacerbates

This term means to make a problem worse, contrasting with the more neutral or positive connotations of "sparks".

FAQs

How can I use "sparks" in a sentence?

"Sparks" can be used to describe literal flashes of light or, metaphorically, to describe something that initiates or triggers an event or feeling. For example, "The argument sparks a heated debate".

What can I say instead of "sparks"?

You can use alternatives like "ignites", "triggers", or "arouses" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "sparks fly"?

Yes, the idiom "sparks fly" is a common expression used to describe a situation where there is conflict or excitement. For example, "Sparks fly when these two strong personalities clash".

What is the difference between "sparks" and "triggers"?

"Sparks" often implies an initial or sudden burst of something, like an idea or conflict, while "triggers" suggests setting off a chain of events or a reaction. The nuance lies in the immediacy and intensity of the action.