the ignition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the ignition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the mechanism that starts an engine or the act of igniting something, such as in vehicles or machinery. Example: "Make sure to turn the key in the ignition to start the car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She started the ignition.

The New York Times

The ignition of curiosity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Richard calls him the ignition.

The New York Times - Sports

Keys are in the ignition.

The New Yorker

Alladio turned the ignition key off.

The New Yorker

He removes the keys from the ignition.

The New Yorker

His keys are in the ignition.

The New Yorker

"It was the ignition of the revolution.

The New York Times

A key turns in the ignition.

The New Yorker

Mr. Mariner turned off the ignition.

The New York Times - Sports

The ignition was in the floor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about vehicles or machinery, use "the ignition" to refer to the system that starts the engine. For abstract concepts, consider alternatives like "the spark" or "the trigger".

Common error

Avoid using "the ignition" when referring to the start of abstract processes where more suitable terms like "the catalyst" or "the impetus" would be more appropriate. Overusing "the ignition" can sound awkward in contexts outside of mechanics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the ignition" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI shows its use in various contexts, from literal references to vehicle components to more abstract metaphorical initiations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the ignition" is a common noun phrase referring to the system for starting an engine or initiating combustion. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, primarily in news and media, as well as technical and general writing. While the phrase is grammatically sound, consider context-appropriate alternatives like "the spark" or "the trigger" for abstract initiations. Avoid overusing it in non-mechanical contexts for clarity. Based on Ludwig's data, "the ignition" is used frequently and correctly across various platforms, making it a reliable and versatile phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting the engine

Focuses specifically on the action of starting an engine, similar to one common use of "the ignition".

turning the key

Describes the physical action of using a key to start a vehicle, often associated with "the ignition".

the starting mechanism

A more technical term that refers to the system used to initiate the combustion process in an engine.

the spark

Emphasizes the initial action or event that sets something in motion, analogous to the initial spark in an ignition system.

the activation

Refers to the general process of making something active or operative.

the trigger

Highlights the event or action that initiates a process or sequence.

the catalyst

Emphasizes something or someone that precipitates an event, similar to an ignition.

the impetus

Highlights the force that causes something to happen or be done.

the launch

Focuses on the beginning or initiation of an event or project.

the onset

Refers to the start or beginning of something, especially something unpleasant.

FAQs

How is "the ignition" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "the ignition" is commonly used in sentences referring to starting a vehicle or machinery. For example: "Turn the key in "the ignition" to start the car."

What are some alternatives to using "the ignition" when talking about abstract concepts?

When referring to the start of something abstract, consider using alternatives like "the spark", "the trigger", or "the catalyst" instead of "the ignition".

Is it correct to use "the ignition" to describe the beginning of a social movement?

While technically understandable, using "the ignition" for abstract beginnings may sound awkward. A better alternative could be "the impetus" or "the genesis" of the movement.

What's the difference between "the ignition" and "the starter"?

"The ignition" refers to the entire system involved in starting an engine, while "the starter" is a specific component of that system. The starter is the motor that turns the engine to initiate combustion.