touch off
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
What she couldn’t have realized on that afternoon in the Dolomites was that her success would touch off a stunning gold rush for the rest of Team USA.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 23, 2026
That is what Raphinha did when he picked up the ball 25 yards out and hammered the ball into the back of the net, via a touch off the bar and goalkeeper Yann Sommer's back.
From BBC • Apr. 30, 2025
Unbeknown to American officials at the time, the genetic map that had landed on their doorstep contained critical clues about the virus that would soon touch off a pandemic.
From New York Times • Jan. 18, 2024
Water can get into the liftgate control computer, causing an electrical short that can touch off a fire.
From Seattle Times • May 16, 2023
Frustration over the lack of progress in housing and employment issues kept tensions high in Durham, with only a spark needed to touch off an explosion.
From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson
