# sparking

/ˈspɑɹkɪŋ/ (US) · /spˈɑːkɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sparking
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

to cause something to start suddenly, especially a feeling, a conversation, or a fight.

For teachers: to trigger or initiate a sudden reaction, process, or emotion. Often used to describe the beginning of something intense or widespread.

## Examples

- The new policy is sparking a lot of debate among the staff.
- The sudden closure of the factory is sparking protests across the city as workers demand fair severance pay.
- The discovery of the ancient manuscript is sparking renewed interest among historians, who believe it may challenge existing theories about the region's early trade routes.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and typically takes an abstract noun as its object, such as 'interest', 'controversy', or 'debate'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.