trigger reaction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trigger reaction" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to refer to a reaction that is caused by a specific stimulus or event. For example, "The teacher's rude comment triggered an angry reaction from the student."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

In the media here, there's a trigger reaction to the name Mugabe - it just means 'evil'evil

The Guardian

Today his trigger reaction to Australia's taking of their powerplay after 39 overs surely cost England dearly.

The Guardian - Sport

It was little more than a PR stunt to demonstrate how hard done by they felt, a trigger reaction to the slings and arrows of outrageous Harper.

The Guardian - Sport

Test methods were designed to trigger reaction in concrete specimens and determine how ambient RH affects expansion of the specimens.

Cement and Concrete Composites

Structural study of the oxirane derivatives showed that the CIEEL mechanism is involved in this chemiluminescent reaction and it was also found that the chemiluminescent profile is affected by the kind of acid employed in the trigger reaction.

Tetrahedron

Oxirane derivatives having acridane and adamantane structures were designed as a novel chemiluminescent precursor and were found to have a characteristic chemiluminescent ability which is introduced by a two-step trigger reaction involving treatment with alkaline H2O2 and subsequent acidic treatment.

Tetrahedron

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

For China, it's a reminder that assertiveness on Taiwan will trigger reactions from its neighbours.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Now when there are consumer issues in the E.U. they trigger reactions in the United States".

The New York Times - Science

It may trigger reactions in people who are allergic to ragweed, marigolds, chrysanthemums, or daisies.

Harvard University

So much for the predictable trigger reactions to another crushing defeat for England.

The Times

In the tropics, intense UV rays in sunlight trigger reactions that effectively scrub greenhouse gases from the air.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "trigger reaction", ensure the context clearly establishes the stimulus and the subsequent response, making the cause-and-effect relationship explicit.

Common error

While "trigger reaction" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in very informal settings. Simpler phrases like "cause a response" or "elicit a reaction" might be more appropriate depending on the tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trigger reaction" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb. It describes an immediate and direct response to a specific stimulus. Ludwig examples showcase its use across diverse fields, from concrete expansion in cement to emotional responses.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "trigger reaction" effectively describes an immediate response to a specific stimulus, finding common usage in news, science, and academic writing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While acceptable in a variety of settings, it is particularly apt when emphasizing a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Related phrases like "elicit a response" or "provoke a reaction" offer nuanced alternatives depending on the context. Remember to use "trigger reaction" where the cause and effect are clear, maintaining clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause a response

A more straightforward and neutral way to express the same idea, suitable for formal contexts.

initiate a reaction

Highlights the beginning of the reaction, suitable when the starting point is important.

induce a response

Formal and technical way to say a response is caused by something.

elicit a response

Focuses on causing a response to occur, implying a more general causation than a direct trigger.

generate a response

Emphasizes the production or creation of a reaction.

provoke a reaction

Suggests a stronger instigation, often implying a negative or defensive response.

prompt a reaction

Suggests a gentle encouragement or urging that leads to the reaction.

spark a response

Implies a sudden and energetic beginning to the reaction.

stimulate a response

Indicates that something is activated or encouraged by another thing.

set off a reaction

Implies an abrupt beginning of a reaction, especially chain reactions.

FAQs

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

You can use "trigger reaction" to describe a response that is caused by a specific stimulus. For example, "The loud noise triggered a startled reaction in the cat."

What are some alternatives to "trigger reaction"?

Some alternatives include "elicit a response", "provoke a reaction", or "cause a response", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "trigger reaction" a formal or informal phrase?

"Trigger reaction" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more common in news, scientific, and technical writing. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when deciding whether to use it.

What's the difference between "trigger reaction" and "cause a reaction"?

"Trigger reaction" implies a more immediate and direct causation, while "cause a reaction" is a more general term for something that leads to a response. The choice depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis on the triggering event.