sparks: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “sparks” mean?
Small, glowing particles of fire or electricity that are thrown off or produced.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Small, glowing particles of fire or electricity that are thrown off or produced.
A person with liveliness or creative talent; a brief initial sign or trigger of something (e.g., an idea, conflict, or emotion).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
As a noun, usage is identical. The verb 'sparks' (he/she sparks) is equally common. Informal use referring to an electrician (e.g., 'call the sparks') is slightly more British.
Connotations
In both, literal sparks imply ignition or danger; metaphorical sparks imply positive energy, creativity, or the start of conflict/romance.
Frequency
High frequency in both, with metaphorical use very common.
Grammar
How to Use “sparks” in a Sentence
Sparks flew (between X and Y).X sparks Y (where X is cause, Y is result).X is full of sparks (metaphorical).Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sparks” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- His rude remark sparks an immediate row in the meeting.
- The new policy sparks widespread controversy.
American English
- Her comment sparks a huge debate on social media.
- The discovery sparks renewed interest in the research.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used metaphorically: 'The merger sparked a wave of innovation.'
Academic
Used historically or scientifically: 'The experiment produced measurable sparks.'
Everyday
Literal: 'Careful, the fire is throwing sparks!' Metaphorical: 'There were sparks between them.'
Technical
In engineering: 'Prevent arcing sparks in the circuit.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sparks”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sparks”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sparks”
- Using 'a spark' for plural context (incorrect: 'I saw a spark flying'; correct: 'I saw sparks flying').
- Overusing the metaphorical sense in overly literal contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is primarily the plural form of the noun 'spark.' The singular is 'a spark.' As a verb, 'sparks' is third person singular present tense (he/she/it sparks).
No. It commonly refers to electricity (e.g., electrical sparks) and is widely used metaphorically for the beginning of ideas, emotions, or conflicts.
It typically means that people are arguing angrily or that there is sudden, intense conflict or strong romantic chemistry.
Yes. 'Spark' suggests a sudden, initial trigger or catalyst that sets something in motion. 'Inspire' implies a deeper, more sustained motivating influence.
Small, glowing particles of fire or electricity that are thrown off or produced.
Sparks is usually neutral in register.
Sparks: in British English it is pronounced /spɑːks/, and in American English it is pronounced /spɑːrks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Sparks fly (when people argue).”
- “Strike sparks off someone (stimulate ideas).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
SPARKS = Small Particles And Rapid Kindling Start.
Conceptual Metaphor
IDEAS/EMOTIONS ARE FIRE ('Her comment sparked a debate.' 'The spark of creativity').
Practice
Quiz
In the sentence 'Her innovative proposal sparked a revolution in design thinking,' what does 'sparked' most closely mean?