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Trigger: meaning, definitions and examples

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trigger

 

[ ˈtrɪɡər ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

psychology

A trigger is a stimulus that prompts a particular response or reaction in a person, often associated with past experiences or trauma.

Synonyms

cue, prompt, stimulus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trigger

This word is often used to describe something that causes an immediate reaction, especially a strong emotional one. It can have a negative connotation.

  • Seeing the old photo triggered a wave of nostalgia.
  • Loud noises can sometimes trigger anxiety.
stimulus

Stimulus is commonly used in scientific or economic contexts, referring to something that brings about activity or change, often through external influence.

  • Light is a stimulus for plant growth.
  • The government introduced a stimulus package to boost the economy.
cue

Cue is typically used in theatrical or performance settings, indicating a signal for someone to take action. It can also be used in everyday situations referring to a signal or hint for someone to do something.

  • The actor came on stage after his cue.
  • She took his yawn as a cue to end the meeting.
prompt

Prompt is generally used to describe an action or event that encourages or reminds someone to do something. It can be both a noun and a verb.

  • The teacher's question was a prompt for discussion.
  • The software prompts the user to update.

Examples of usage

  • The sound of a car backfiring can be a trigger for someone with PTSD.
  • Seeing a particular color may act as a trigger for a specific memory.
  • Smelling a certain scent can serve as a trigger for an emotional response.
Context #2 | Verb

general

To trigger means to cause something to happen or activate a process or mechanism.

Synonyms

activate, initiate, provoke.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trigger

When describing something that causes an immediate reaction or response, especially if the reaction is emotional or psychological. Often used in contexts like trauma or allergies.

  • The loud noise can trigger anxiety in some people.
  • Certain foods can trigger an allergic reaction.
activate

When referring to starting a system, device, or process, especially a mechanical or electronic one.

  • You need to activate your account to start using the service.
  • They activated the alarm system to secure the building.
initiate

When beginning a formal process, program, or movement, often used in official or management contexts.

  • The company will initiate a new training program next month.
  • He initiated the project with a detailed plan.
provoke

When causing someone to feel a strong reaction, typically negative, such as anger or irritation. It has a slightly negative connotation.

  • His rude comments were intended to provoke an argument.
  • The unfair decision provoked outrage among the citizens.

Examples of usage

  • The alarm clock triggered the start of the morning routine.
  • His words triggered a heated argument.
  • The news of the promotion triggered celebrations in the office.

Translations

Translations of the word "trigger" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gatilho

🇮🇳 ट्रिगर

🇩🇪 Abzug

🇮🇩 pelatuk

🇺🇦 спусковий гачок

🇵🇱 spust

🇯🇵 引き金

🇫🇷 détente

🇪🇸 gatillo

🇹🇷 tetik

🇰🇷 방아쇠

🇸🇦 زناد

🇨🇿 spoušť

🇸🇰 spúšť

🇨🇳 扳机

🇸🇮 sprožilec

🇮🇸 gikkur

🇰🇿 шүріппе

🇬🇪 გამშვები

🇦🇿 tətik

🇲🇽 gatillo

Etymology

The word 'trigger' originated from the Middle English term 'trigour', meaning a piece of metal that releases the catch holding a gun's hammer when the trigger is pulled. It has since evolved to represent any stimulus that initiates a reaction or response, both in psychological and general contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,668 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.