trigger - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
trigger Word Meanings
- a device that activates something
- to initiate a process or event
- to cause a reaction or response
trigger Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
trigger Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtrɪɡə/
US
/ˈtrɪɡər/
trigger Word Etymology
trigger = tr- (archaic) + gger (to pull) from Middle Dutch 'trigger', meaning 'to pull'. The word has its roots in Middle Dutch and relates to pulling. Imagine pulling a gun's trigger to see quick action, symbolizing initiation.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the light switch, my finger moves, and I push it. The lamp clicks on and the room changes in an instant. I feel a small surge of focus, a push of control as things fall into place. Later I hear myself say trigger when something starts up or sparks a reaction—it's about the moment, not magic.
Real Context
Trigger refers to something that activates a device or starts a process. In everyday usage, we talk about emotional triggers that prompt a reaction, as well as technical triggers in machines, software, or experiments that fire when certain conditions are met. The noun can denote the device itself (a trigger on a gun or a switch) or the event that causes an action; the verb means to cause something to begin, often suddenly or unexpectedly. Learners should note common collocations like trigger an alarm, trigger a memory, or trigger a chain reaction, and remember that some phrases use trigger with off or in contexts such as 'trigger off' a reaction.
Usage Reminders
- Use trigger to start an action, not only emotions.
- Remember trigger can be a device or an event.
- Common collocations: trigger an alarm, trigger a memory, trigger a reaction.
- In some contexts you may hear 'trigger off' but it's less common in American English.
- After trigger, you usually need a noun (alarm, memory, reaction).
Common Misconceptions
- Trigger is not only a physical device; it can be an event or a situation that starts something.
- Not every trigger is negative; a trigger can start positive processes too.
- 'Trigger off' is less common in American English; prefer 'trigger' or 'trigger a' + noun.
- Avoid confusing 'trigger' with 'activate' when the emphasis is on initiating rather than just turning on.
- Remember some phrases use 'trigger' as a transitive verb with an object (trigger a memory) rather than intransitive.
Thinking Differences
In English, trigger is often used broadly for both devices and events that cause action, which can be confusing for learners who expect a strict device-versus-action split.
Learning Tips
- Learn that trigger can be a device or a cause.
- memorize common collocations: trigger an alarm, trigger a memory, trigger a reaction.
- distinguish trigger from activate; use trigger when something is caused to start.
- pay attention to phrasal forms like trigger off in formal writing.
- practice with real contexts to avoid literal translations.
- keep a note of whether the trigger is external or internal (emotion vs device).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'trigger'?
A.A cause
B.A tool
C.A color
D.A fruit
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'trigger' used correctly?
A.She ate too much and trigger upset stomach.
B.His rude comment trigger her anger.
C.The cat sat on the trigger of the gun.
D.I saw a beautiful trigger in the garden.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'trigger'?
A.Prevent
B.Stimulus
C.Suppress
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'trigger'?
A.Calm
B.Prompt
C.Incite
D.Hinder
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you encounter the word 'trigger'?
A.In a bakery
B.At a gun range
C.On a hiking trail
D.At a movie theater
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