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trigger Synonyms

Another word for trigger

Looking for synonyms for trigger? Sourced from our comprehensive thesaurus, here is a list of similar words and another word for trigger, organized by relevance and context.
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• noun (Context 1)

An event or circumstance that is the direct cause of a particular action, process, or situation.

Usage Example

"The sudden drop in temperature was the biological catalyst for the trees to begin shedding their leaves."

Strongest
catalyst
cause
Strong
impetus
stimulus
prompt

• verb (Context 2)

To cause an event, process, or situation to begin or happen.

Usage Example

"The announcement of the controversial new policy is expected to cause widespread debate among the committee members."

Strongest
cause
spark
Strong
initiate
provoke
generate

• noun (Context 3)

A small mechanical lever or catch that, when pressed or pulled, releases a spring and initiates a mechanism or process.

Usage Example

"The photographer gently pressed the lever on the camera to capture the fleeting moment perfectly."

Strong
lever
Weak
catch
switch
release

• verb (Context 4)

To set off or activate a mechanical device, alarm, or automated reaction.

Usage Example

"Opening the secured laboratory door without the proper access code will immediately activate the building's alarm system."

Strongest
activate
Strong
trip
release

• noun (Context 5)

A sensory stimulus that elicits a strong, often distressing, emotional reaction by recalling a prior traumatic experience.

Usage Example

"The therapist helped the patient identify her emotional triggers in order to better manage her sudden waves of anxiety."

Strong
stimulus
reminder

• verb (Context 6)

To cause a person to experience a strong emotional reaction, especially by reminding them of a past trauma.

Usage Example

"Certain evocative smells, like burning wood, can inadvertently provoke vivid memories of childhood for many individuals."

Strong
provoke
Weak
upset

Opposites of trigger

Looking for antonyms? The opposite of trigger varies depending on the context. Here are a few common opposites:

deactivate
disable
prevent
result
stop
halt
effect
block
See all opposites of trigger

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Trigger. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/trigger
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