TOUCHED OFF Meaning and
Definition
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The term "touched off" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used in informal or conversational English. It is mainly used to describe the act of triggering or initiating an event or a series of events, often unintentionally.
When something "touched off" an event, it means that it set in motion a chain reaction or catalyzed the occurrence of something. It can refer to a spark that ignites a fire, a comment that starts an argument, or an action that commences a sequence of events. This phrasal verb implies that a seemingly minor action or occurrence played a crucial role in instigating subsequent developments.
For example, a single gunshot could touch off a riot, or a simple mistake could touch off a chain of unfortunate events. The expression suggests that the initial action or event may have unexpected and far-reaching consequences.
Moreover, "touched off" can also be used metaphorically in non-physical contexts. It can describe the start of an emotional reaction, a change in attitude, or the triggering of a memory. For instance, a poignant scene in a movie might touch off strong emotions in the audience, or a familiar scent might touch off nostalgic memories.
In summary, "touched off" refers to the act of starting or triggering something, whether it be a physical reaction, a series of events, or an emotional response. It denotes the key action or event that sets off a subsequent chain of actions or reactions.
Common Misspellings for TOUCHED OFF
Etymology of TOUCHED OFF
The phrase "touched off" is derived from the verb "touch", which originated from the Old French term "touchier" in the 13th century. "Touchier" came from the Vulgar Latin word "toccāre", meaning "to touch". Over time, the meaning of "touch" expanded to include various senses, including "ignite" or "trigger". Thus, "touched off" evolved to signify the act of setting something off or initiating something, often used to describe the beginning of an event or situation.
