triggers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "triggers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that causes a reaction or response, often in a psychological or emotional context. Example: "Certain sounds can act as triggers for memories of past experiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Coming out during an interview (e.g. if applying for accompanied status, where you would like your partner to come with you) triggers too many questions about homosexuality in the country where you are planning to go and how you would cope with that.

The Guardian

"Their triggers should be staying and defending or leave.

The Guardian

Stranded in a sea of possible triggers, the piece of land I was standing on – clinging to – grew smaller and smaller.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Examining 20 advanced countries, they concluded that hitting that 90% level triggers a fall from 3-4% growto to -0.1%.

The Guardian - Opinion

The verbal and physical abuse many A&E staff face from drunken patients was one of the triggers for Mann's proposal.

The Guardian

'71, directed by feature newcomer Yann Demange (also a best British film nominee) is a taut thriller set at the height of the Northern Ireland conflict and features Jack O'Connell as a young soldier separated from his company when a house-to-house search triggers a riot.

The Guardian - Film

Hence, as we watch responses to Snowden's revelations we see that massive invasion of privacy triggers justified anxiety among the survivors of totalitarianism about the fate of liberty.

The Guardian - Tech

But having almost no social connections triggers strange symptoms.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ever since the riots in Clichy-sous-Bois in 2005, all matches with North African teams had become potential triggers for trouble in Paris.

The Guardian

The smoke from cooking using these solid fuels also triggers respiratory problems that cause nearly 2 million deaths in the developing world each year.

The Guardian

Clicking on the illustration triggers a short animation depicting a stylised rise of Wren's St Paul's Cathedral, construction of which began in 1675.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "triggers" in a sentence, ensure clarity by specifying what is being triggered and the context in which it occurs. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the cause-and-effect relationship.

Common error

Be mindful of the potentially sensitive nature of the word "triggers", especially when discussing trauma or mental health. Overusing it or using it carelessly can trivialize serious issues. Opt for more neutral terms like "causes" or "initiates" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The term "triggers" functions as both a noun (plural form of 'trigger') and a verb (third-person singular present tense of 'trigger'). As a verb, it denotes the action of initiating or setting off something. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "triggers" is a versatile term used as both a noun and a verb to describe something that initiates a response or event. As Ludwig AI explains, its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts like news, business, and science make it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary. Be mindful of its potential sensitivity in certain contexts and consider alternatives when necessary to ensure clarity and appropriateness. The linguistic analysis highlights the term's neutral register and its common usage in cause-and-effect relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

causes

Highlights the direct relationship between an action and its result.

leads to

Emphasizes the directional influence of one action over another.

activates

Emphasizes the action of setting something in motion or making it functional.

results in

Focuses on the outcome or consequence of a particular action.

initiates

Focuses on the beginning or commencement of an action or process.

sets off

Indicates starting a chain reaction or a series of events.

sparks

Implies a sudden burst or initiation of something, often a reaction.

prompts

Suggests a gentle encouragement or cause for an action.

gives rise to

Highlights the creation or origination of something as a result.

incites

Suggests provoking or stirring up a strong reaction or emotion.

FAQs

How can I use "triggers" in a sentence?

You can use "triggers" to describe something that initiates a reaction or event. For example, "Certain news articles can act as "triggers" for anxiety."

What can I say instead of "triggers"?

You can use alternatives like "initiates", "activates", or "causes" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "triggers" in all contexts?

While "triggers" is grammatically correct, it's essential to be mindful of the context. In sensitive situations, consider using alternative terms to avoid causing unintended offense or distress.

What's the difference between "triggers" and "causes"?

"Triggers" often implies a more immediate or direct reaction, while "causes" can refer to a broader or more general relationship between events. "The loud noise "triggers" a startle response" versus "Pollution "causes" respiratory problems."