Sparks: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in situations where small, bright particles are emitted, usually due to friction, short circuits, or fireworks. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the beginning of something, often an idea or emotion.

• The wires touched and created sparks.
• Her speech ignited sparks of inspiration in the audience.

Flashes are quick bursts of light, often associated with lightning, cameras, or sudden appearances. This word is commonly used to describe brief moments of visibility or sudden realizations.

• The camera flashes blinded the celebrity.
• There were flashes of lightning in the sky.

This term is used when referring to the flow of electric charge or power supply in homes and electronic devices. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a sense of excitement or tension in the air.

• We lost electricity during the storm.
• There was a palpable electricity in the room before the concert started.

Best used when referring to small bursts of light or excitement, often metaphorically for initial signs of energy, interest, or conflict.

• The news of the discovery sparked excitement among the scientists.
• His controversial comments sparked a heated debate.

Best used when referring to causing something to happen suddenly, often with a negative or drastic connotation, such as initiating a reaction or series of events.

• The unexpected news triggered a panic in the stock market.
• His actions triggered an emotional response from the audience.

Fits well in contexts where there is a need to describe the process of encouraging activity, interest, or response, often in a positive or constructive manner.

• Our goal is to stimulate students' interest in science.
• The government introduced measures to stimulate economic growth.

Ideal for describing the action of starting a fire or causing something to begin suddenly. It can also be used metaphorically for strong emotions or significant events.

• The dry leaves ignited quickly in the intense heat.
• Her speech ignited a passion for change within the community.