precipitate (C1)

verb

Pronunciation: /prɪˈsɪpɪteɪt/

Definition

To cause an event or situation, usually a bad one, to happen suddenly and sooner than expected.

Examples

• The assassination of the archduke precipitated World War I.

• The company's stock price fell, precipitating a crisis.

• A lack of rain can precipitate a drought.

How to Use precipitate

precipitate a crisis (collocation)

To cause a serious or dangerous situation to happen suddenly. — "The scandal could precipitate a political crisis."

precipitate an event (collocation)

To cause a specific occurrence to happen suddenly. — "The discovery of the evidence precipitated a new investigation."

precipitate into (prepositional phrase)

To suddenly move or fall into a particular state or situation. — "The country precipitated into civil war after the election."

Synonyms of precipitate

Words with a similar meaning to precipitate:

• cause
• trigger
• instigate
• precipitate

Antonyms of precipitate

Words with the opposite meaning to precipitate:

• prevent
• delay
• hinder

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