triggering
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.causing someone to feel very upset, shocked, or reminded of a past bad experience.
adj.evoking a strong, often negative, emotional or psychological response, particularly in relation to past trauma.
Simple“The news report was quite triggering for people who had lived through the war.”
In context“The film included a content warning because several scenes were considered potentially triggering for survivors of domestic abuse.”
UsageOften used with a 'content warning' in digital media.
Teacher's tipThis is the most common modern use of the word. While it started in psychology, it is now used widely in casual conversation and social media.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
adj.acting as the thing that starts a specific event or chemical reaction.
adj.serving as the primary stimulus or catalyst that initiates a mechanical, biological, or chemical process.
Simple“The triggering event for the chemical reaction was a sudden change in temperature.”
In context“Researchers identified the triggering mechanism that causes the cells to replicate uncontrollably under specific laboratory conditions.”
UsageUsually placed before the noun it modifies.
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
n.the act of starting a process or making something happen.
n.the action or process of initiating a sequence of events or a mechanical operation.
Simple“The automatic triggering of the alarm system prevented the theft.”
In context“The precise triggering of the explosive charges was essential for the controlled demolition of the old stadium.”
SynonymsAntonymsdeactivationstoppage
Usage triggering landslide
“Trade experts have predicted that the tariffs could result in some job losses, but the biggest impact is expected to be political, triggering fresh tension between the neighbours.”
“Heavy rains wash over the site, triggering a landslide that buries several shacks.”