raise the spectre
To cause concern that something unfortunate might happen.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The new tax laws raise the spectre of higher prices for everyone.”
“The sudden drop in sales raised the spectre of layoffs for the entire department.”
“The politician's controversial speech raised the spectre of civil unrest, leaving the public deeply anxious about the upcoming election results.”
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raise Cain
Synonym of raise hell.
- 02
raise eyebrows
To cause surprise.
- 03
raise hell
To cause a considerable disturbance.
- 04
raise one's eyebrows
Of a person, to be surprised.
- 05
raise one's voice
To speak loudly, especially in anger.
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raise someone's hackles
To annoy or anger someone.
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raise someone's shag
To anger or annoy someone.
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raise someone's spirits
To make someone feel in a better mood
Last updated August 10, 2026