sparks backlash

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sparks backlash" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation or action that provokes a strong negative reaction or criticism from others. Example: "The controversial decision to cut funding for the arts sparks backlash from the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

ABC News sternly reported that "Mom's Diet for 7-Year-Old Daughter in 'Vogue' Sparks Backlash".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

His comments have sparked backlash online.

Independent

The book, originally written in Dutch by authors Linda de Haan and Stern Nijland, has sparked backlash among social conservatives who disagree with its message, and do not want children exposed to literature that discusses LGBT issues.

The Guardian

Confusingly jamming Stories in between private messages has sparked backlash amongst the first users of Snapchat's sweeping redesign.

TechCrunch

Reports of the U.S. spying on German citizens sparked backlash in Europe last year in the wake of leaks from former government contractor Edward Snowden about the scope of NSA surveillance programs.

TechCrunch

Trump's aggressive rhetoric has sparked backlash from many world leaders.

Huffington Post

Pence's decision to sign the bill into law has sparked backlash against the state.

Huffington Post

The move sparked backlash from some far-right and conservative users.

Huffington Post

The consideration had sparked backlash from Muslim-majority Indonesia and Malaysia, threatening a free trade deal that has now been delayed.

Huffington Post

The post has sparked backlash online, with many commenters asking why companies don't just hire more female coders instead.

Vice

The maneuvers sparked backlash from the European Union and the court's tribunal responded by declaring that attempts to paralyze the court are contrary to the constitution of Poland.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sparks backlash" to describe situations where a clear cause-and-effect relationship exists between an action and a strong negative reaction. It's particularly effective when highlighting the immediate or widespread nature of the response.

Common error

Avoid using "sparks backlash" for trivial or localized disagreements. This phrase implies a significant and widespread negative response, so ensure the situation warrants such a strong term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sparks backlash" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that something (an event, decision, action) initiates or causes a strong negative reaction. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sparks backlash" is a grammatically sound and effective way to describe a situation where an action or event causes a strong negative reaction. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. While not extremely common, it's frequently found in news and media contexts, as Ludwig's analysis demonstrates. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the situation warrants the implication of a significant and widespread negative response, avoiding overuse in trivial disagreements. Alternatives like "ignites controversy" or "provokes outcry" can provide nuanced options depending on the specific context you're aiming to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ignites controversy

Focuses on the controversial aspect of the situation, implying a public disagreement or debate.

provokes outcry

Emphasizes the vocal expression of strong disapproval or protest.

generates opposition

Highlights the creation of resistance or disagreement to a plan, idea, or action.

incites criticism

Focuses on the act of stimulating or provoking negative feedback and judgment.

triggers negative reaction

General way to express that an action caused negative feelings.

prompts condemnation

Highlights the formal expression of strong disapproval, typically in a public or official context.

fuels dissent

Emphasizes the increase of disagreement or opposition, often within a larger group.

creates resistance

Focuses on the formation of opposition or barriers to a particular action or change.

causes adverse reaction

A more formal or clinical way to describe a negative response.

elicits disapproval

Highlights the drawing out or evoking of negative feelings or judgments.

FAQs

How can I use "sparks backlash" in a sentence?

You can use "sparks backlash" to describe situations where an action or decision causes a strong negative reaction. For example, "The company's new policy "sparks backlash" from employees."

What are some alternatives to "sparks backlash"?

Some alternatives to "sparks backlash" include "ignites controversy", "provokes outcry", or "generates opposition", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "sparks backlash" in formal writing?

Yes, "sparks backlash" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in journalistic or analytical contexts where you need to convey a significant negative reaction. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What's the difference between "sparks backlash" and "causes concern"?

"Sparks backlash" implies a stronger, more vocal negative reaction than "causes concern". The former suggests active opposition, while the latter indicates worry or apprehension.