Difference between words trigger and set off

Question

Can you please tell me the difference between verbs trigger and set off ?

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

Anonymousdifference between verbs trigger and set off

In certain meanings they are the same in meaning. set off has more meanings, however, as you can see in the definitions below, taken from the Merriam-Webster on-line dictionary.

set off
1
a : to put in relief : show up by contrast b : adorn, embellish c : to set apart : make distinct or outstanding
2
a : offset, compensate <more variety in the Lancashire weather to set off its most disagreeable phases — Geographical Journal> b : to make a setoff of <the respective totals shall be set off against one another — O. R. Hobson>
3
a : to set in motion : cause to begin b : to cause to explode
4
: to measure off on a surface
intransitive verb
: to start out on a course or a journey <set off for home>

trigger
1
a : to release or activate by means of a trigger; especially : to fire by pulling a mechanical trigger <trigger a rifle> b : to cause the explosion of <trigger a missile with a proximity fuse>
2
: to initiate, actuate, or set off by a trigger <an indiscreet remark that triggered a fight> <a stimulus that triggered a reflex>
intransitive verb
: to release a mechanical trigger

Smoke triggered the fire alarm.
The timer was set to trigger the bomb in exactly one hour.
His remarks triggered a public outcry.
Certain foods trigger his headaches.
The power outage was triggered by heavy rains.

CJ

Difference between words trigger and set off

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