Spanish Conversation · Level 88
60 words
Spanish word
detonante
Pronunciation
IPA/detoˈnante/
Meaning
- masculine nountrigger
Example
La discusión fue el detonante de su ruptura.
The argument was the trigger for their breakup.
More examples
La frase sacada de contexto sirvió de detonante para el enfrentamiento entre vecinos.
The phrase taken out of context served as the trigger for the confrontation between neighbors.
Core concept
A single spark that sets off a much larger reaction.
Common phrases
detonante de una discusión
trigger for a discussion
detonante emocional
emotional trigger
detonante de la pelea
trigger for the fight
Similar words
motivo: A reason or motive that explains why a person acts or an event happens.
origen: The origin or starting point from which an event, process, or condition begins.
estímulo: A stimulus that prompts a response, action, or increased activity.
Definition in Spanish
Refiere al elemento puntual que desencadena un proceso, tanto en sentido literal (explosión) como metafórico.
Word origin
The word comes from Latin detonare and in Spanish derives from the verb detonar combined with the agentive suffix -ante to form a noun that denotes what triggers a detonation or a similar process.
Usage tips
- Commonly used with de (el detonante de) to name the specific event or fact that starts a chain, and it denotes a cause rather than the physical device detonador.