Trigger – Meaning, Synonym, Pronunciation and Examples

Do you want to enhance your English Vocabulary? This article explores the meaning, pronunciation, synonyms, antonyms, and usage examples of the TRIGGER.

Meaning of Trigger

• A small device that releases a spring or catch and so sets off a mechanism, especially to fire a gun.
• Cause (an event or situation) to happen or exist.

Synonyms

• Activate
• Initiate
• Set off
• Cause
• Start
• Begin
• Generate
• Provoke

Examples

• Lack of sleep and hunger can trigger a headache.
• A sensor triggered the security camera alerting the guard that there was someone trying to break in.
• The power outage was triggered by torrential rains.
• Investigators are unsure as to which suspect pulled the trigger in the murder case.
• Depression is an illness that could be triggered by stress.

FAQs for Trigger

Q1. What does the word “trigger” mean?
A. “Trigger” can mean a small device that releases a mechanism, or it can refer to something that causes a reaction or event, especially emotions or actions.

Q2. How is “trigger” pronounced?
A. “Trigger” is pronounced as /ˈtrɪɡ.ər/. You can listen to the pronunciation on various online dictionaries or language apps.

Q3. Can “trigger” be used as a verb?
A. Yes, “trigger” can be a verb meaning to cause something to happen, such as “The announcement triggered a wave of protests.”

Q4. In what contexts is “trigger” commonly used?
A. “Trigger” is often used in psychological contexts (e.g., trigger anxiety), mechanical contexts (e.g., trigger of a gun), and everyday speech to describe causing any event or reaction.

Q5. Is “trigger” a formal or informal word?
A. “Trigger” is widely used in both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for conversation, writing, and academic use.

Q6. How can I use the word “trigger” effectively in my IELTS Writing and Speaking?
A. The word “trigger” is useful in IELTS Writing and Speaking to describe causes or events that initiate a reaction or change. For example, you might say, “The sudden increase in pollution levels triggered widespread health problems,” or “Stress can trigger anxiety in many individuals.” Using “trigger” demonstrates a good range of vocabulary and helps explain cause-effect relationships clearly, which is important for higher IELTS band scores.