trigger
Pronunciation: /ˈtrɪɡər/
verb
Definition of trigger
To cause an event or situation to happen
Synonyms for trigger
trigger in a Sentence
- Rising temperatures can trigger extreme weather events.
Why trigger Matters for GRE & SAT
"trigger" is a verb that means "To cause an event or situation to happen" closely related to words like "cause", "provoke", "initiate". As a word starting with T, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.
On the GRE, understanding "trigger" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "trigger" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.
Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (verb). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "trigger" into long-term memory.
How to Remember trigger
One effective way to remember "trigger" (verb) is to group it with similar words you already know: "cause" and "provoke" and "initiate". When you encounter "trigger" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "To cause an event or situation to happen".
Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "trigger" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.
More Vocabulary Words Starting with T
- tacit — Understood or implied without being stated
- tacit — implied without being directly expressed
- taciturn — of few words; speaking little
- tact — skill in handling difficult situations without causing offense
- tangential — only superficially relevant
- tangible — capable of being touched; real or actual
- tangible — Clear and definite; real; able to be touched
- tantalizing — arousing desire or interest without fulfillment
- tantamount — equivalent in effect or value
- target — An objective or result toward which efforts are directed