What does the phrasal verb “spark off” mean?

What are the definitions of “spark off”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Cause something, usually unpleasant, to happen.

  The riot was SPARKED OFF by the police raid on the club.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “spark off”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb spark off is to cause something, usually unpleasant or negative, to happen. It often refers to starting a conflict, argument, or other difficult situation.

What are the different verb forms of “spark off”?

Root Verb	spark off
Third Person Singular Present	sparks off
Present Participle	sparking off
Simple Past	sparked off
Past Participle	sparked off

Example

The argument sparked off a heated debate among the group.

Example

His controversial statement sparks off a lot of discussions.

Example

The incident is sparking off protests in the city.

Example

The news sparked off a wave of panic among the public.

Example

The conflict was sparked off by a misunderstanding.

What kind of phrasal verb is “spark off”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“spark off” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

The announcement sparked off a series of protests.

Example

Her comment sparked off an argument between the two friends.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“spark off” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The announcement sparked off a series of protests.

Example

Her comment sparked off an argument between the two friends.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “spark off”?

Spark off a chain reaction

Cause a series of related events to happen, one after the other.

Example

The economic downturn sparked off a chain reaction of job losses and business closures.

Spark off a controversy

Cause a public disagreement or debate, often involving strong emotions.

Example

The politician's speech sparked off a controversy about immigration policies.

Spark off a firestorm

Cause a sudden and intense reaction, often involving public outrage or criticism.

Example

The company's decision to cut employee benefits sparked off a firestorm of protests.

Good things to know

Does “spark off” have an informal or formal tone?

Spark off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as news reports, academic discussions, or professional communication.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “spark off”?

Synonyms

• trigger
• provoke
• ignite
• instigate
• cause
• stir up
• set off
• incite

Antonyms for {keyword}

• prevent
• avoid
• stop
• quell
• calm
• diffuse
• resolve
• suppress