trigger a debate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trigger a debate" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when you want to express that something has sparked a conversation. For example, "The controversial news article triggered a debate among my friends about the merits of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Snowden hoped to trigger a debate "about the kind of world we want to live in".

The Guardian - Opinion

Emmerson's report is expected to trigger a debate in the UN's human rights council in Geneva.

The Guardian

The two groups have launched a petition that could trigger a debate in parliament on the issue.

The Guardian

If the government breaches the cap this will also trigger a debate and vote in the House of Commons.

The Guardian

But our ambition for the list is to trigger a debate rather than provide the final word.

The Guardian

If the government wants to change the level of the cap during the Parliament this will trigger a debate and a vote in the House of Commons..

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

The scene triggered a debate online.

The New Yorker

The incident triggers a debate among the grown-ups about interpretation.

The New York Times

The protests have triggered a debate about universities that is unlikely to abate soon.

The Economist

Her arrest triggered a debate in Japan about artistic freedom and women's rights.

Independent

The scandal, and Park's subsequent impeachment, triggered a debate over the nation's economic, political, and social order.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "trigger a debate" when you want to emphasize that something has directly caused a discussion, especially on a specific topic or issue. It's suitable when the action or event leads to a noticeable and often lively exchange of opinions.

Common error

Avoid using "trigger a debate" if the situation necessitates more than merely starting a discussion. If you need to convey the continuation, management, or resolution of a debate, opt for phrases like "moderate a debate", "lead a debate" or "resolve a debate" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trigger a debate" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the initiation of a discussion or controversy. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is correct and frequently used in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "trigger a debate" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the act of initiating a discussion, often about a contentious issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for use across various contexts, particularly in news and media, and science, maintaining a neutral register. When writing, ensure that the context genuinely involves the start of a discussion and not its continuation or resolution. If needed, alternatives like "spark a debate" or "initiate a debate" can add nuance, as demonstrated by the examples Ludwig provides. Keep in mind that using the phrase conveys that an event has immediately caused a discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spark a debate

This alternative implies a sudden and forceful initiation of a debate.

initiate a debate

This alternative focuses on the formal commencement of a debate.

ignite a debate

This alternative suggests a fiery and passionate start to a debate.

provoke a debate

This alternative indicates that the debate is a direct consequence of the action.

instigate a debate

This alternative implies a more deliberate and intentional starting of the debate.

prompt a debate

This alternative suggests a milder initiation of the debate, more of a gentle push.

elicit a debate

This alternative highlights the extraction of a debate as a response.

set off a debate

This alternative conveys a sense of something happening automatically after the initial trigger.

give rise to a debate

This alternative suggests a more gradual and organic development of a debate.

foster a debate

This alternative emphasizes the nurturing and encouraging of a debate.

FAQs

How can I use "trigger a debate" in a sentence?

You can use "trigger a debate" to show that something caused a discussion or argument. For example, "The politician's statement "triggered a debate" about immigration policy".

What is a synonym for "trigger a debate"?

Alternatives to "trigger a debate" include phrases like "spark a debate", "initiate a debate", or "provoke a debate".

What's the difference between "trigger a debate" and "start a debate"?

"Trigger a debate" implies a more immediate and reactive initiation, whereas "start a debate" can suggest a more planned or deliberate commencement. "The news "triggered a debate"" suggests a reaction, while "They decided to "start a debate"" suggests intention.

Is it appropriate to use "trigger a debate" in formal writing?

Yes, "trigger a debate" is suitable for formal writing, including news articles, academic papers, and business reports. It's a clear and concise way to describe the commencement of a discussion.