Translation guide
How to express 'trigger' in Japanese, covering both the noun (a cause or stimulus) and the verb (to initiate or set off).
Referring to something that causes a reaction, event, or emotional response.
Literally 'trigger' of a gun, but commonly used metaphorically for any event that sets off a chain reaction. Neutral in tone.
その事件が戦争の引き金となった。
That incident became the trigger for the war.
A chance, opportunity, or impetus that starts something. Often used for positive or neutral triggers, like starting a hobby or a conversation.
彼との出会いが留学のきっかけだった。
Meeting him was the trigger for studying abroad.
A contributing cause or inducement. More formal and often used in medical, psychological, or analytical contexts.
ストレスが病気の誘因になることがある。
Stress can be a trigger for illness.
Loanword from English, used mainly in technical fields like electronics, programming, or psychology. Not common in everyday speech.
この回路はトリガー信号で動作する。
This circuit operates on a trigger signal.
Expressing the action of initiating an event, often suddenly or as a direct result.
To cause, bring about, or trigger (usually negative events like accidents, problems, or conflicts). Transitive verb.
その発言が大論争を引き起こした。
That remark triggered a huge controversy.
To induce or trigger (often medical conditions, reactions, or events). More formal than 引き起こす.
アレルギー反応を誘発する物質
a substance that triggers an allergic reaction
To activate or trigger a device or mechanism. Used for machines, alarms, etc.
センサーが警報を作動させた。
The sensor triggered the alarm.
Describing when something provokes a strong emotional or psychological response.
To stimulate or provoke. Can be used for both positive and negative emotional triggers.
その映画は彼のトラウマを刺激した。
The movie triggered his trauma.
Literally 'to cause emotions'. A more explicit way to say something triggers feelings.
その曲は懐かしい感情を引き起こす。
That song triggers nostalgic feelings.
To evoke or call forth (memories, emotions). Often used for memories or past feelings.
引き金 emphasizes a direct cause-and-effect, often with a negative connotation (like pulling a trigger). きっかけ is more neutral or positive, implying an opportunity or starting point. Use きっかけ for personal stories or positive changes.
失恋がきっかけでダイエットを始めた。
A broken heart was the trigger for starting a diet.
失恋が引き金でうつ病になった。
A broken heart triggered depression.
The English verb 'trigger' is often translated as 引き起こす or 誘発する, but not as トリガーする, which is unnatural. Use the appropriate Japanese verb based on context.
その匂いが子供時代の記憶を呼び起こした。
The smell triggered childhood memories.