1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To cause a sudden conflict, controversy, or large event, often unintentionally.
"The prime minister's comments sparked off a heated national debate."
separable
spark off
B2 neutral separable transitive
To cause something to begin suddenly, especially a conflict, controversy, or chain of events.
In plain English
To suddenly start something big, like a fight or a problem, even if you didn't mean to.
What does "spark off" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To stimulate or inspire creativity, discussion, or ideas.
"Reading that novel sparked off a completely new direction in her writing."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
A spark flying off to start a fire — the figurative cause-and-effect meaning is closely related.
Actually means
To suddenly start something big, like a fight or a problem, even if you didn't mean to.
Usage tip
More common in British English than American English. Often used in journalism and reporting. The metaphor comes from a spark igniting a larger fire. Typically used for negative events such as riots, debates, or arguments, but can also apply to creative ideas.
Words that pair with "spark off"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
riot debate controversy crisis war argument reaction discussion
How to conjugate "spark off"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
spark off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sparks off
he/she/it
Past simple
sparked off
yesterday
Past participle
sparked off
have + pp
-ing form
sparking off
continuous
Hear "spark off" in the wild
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Other ways to say "spark off"
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Keep exploring
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