English Expression · Intermediate
touch off
To cause a fire to start
Pronunciation: say touch off
Meaning
To trigger or initiate something, often an argument or a series of events.
Example
Be cautious talking about religion or politics, lest you touch off an argument.
Be cautious talking about religion or politics, lest you touch off an argument.
Practice tips
- Practice touch off out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.