ENGLISH
REFERENCE

raise the spectre

idiom
Meaning

To cause concern that something unfortunate might happen.


Examples
SIMPLE

The new tax laws raise the spectre of higher prices for everyone.

CONTEXTUAL

The sudden drop in sales raised the spectre of layoffs for the entire department.

COMPLEX

The politician's controversial speech raised the spectre of civil unrest, leaving the public deeply anxious about the upcoming election results.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    raise Cain

    Synonym of raise hell.

  2. 02

    raise eyebrows

    To cause surprise.

  3. 03

    raise hell

    To cause a considerable disturbance.

  4. 04

    raise one's eyebrows

    Of a person, to be surprised.

  5. 05

    raise one's voice

    To speak loudly, especially in anger.

  6. 06

    raise someone's hackles

    To annoy or anger someone.

  7. 07

    raise someone's shag

    To anger or annoy someone.

  8. 08

    raise someone's spirits

    To make someone feel in a better mood

© 2026 English Reference