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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Describe how one small event can lead to a surprising chain of later events.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode compares the butterfly effect and domino effect: both describe how one event may lead to later consequences. It also explains “chain reaction” and verbs such as “set off” and “trigger” for the start of a sequence.
Cultural note: In everyday conversation, people often use “butterfly effect” loosely for small events with unexpectedly large consequences. The expression comes from scientific discussions of complex systems, but a casual example is not proof that one event directly caused every later outcome.
Keep exploringA small first move can change what happens next. Compare the delicate butterfly image with the more direct falling-domino image.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Talk about small causes with larger or hard-to-predict outcomes.
Meaning
The idea that a small change can contribute to much larger, difficult-to-predict outcomes later.
Tone & use
Often used informally for surprising chains of consequences. It does not mean that every small action will create a major result.
Example
“A quick conversation at the library had a butterfly effect: it led her to a class, then a new career.”
Meaning
A sequence in which one event causes the next, like a row of falling dominoes.
Tone & use
Common when the steps follow one another relatively directly. It can describe helpful progress as well as problems.
Example
“One delayed shipment created a domino effect that pushed back the whole launch.”
Meaning
A series of events in which each one causes another.
Tone & use
Common in science and everyday explanations. It emphasizes connected steps rather than one isolated result.
Example
“The sudden closure set off a chain reaction of schedule changes across the school.”
Describe the first event that begins a series of changes.
Meaning
Cause something to begin, especially a process or series of events.
Tone & use
A common phrasal verb with several meanings. In this sense, it is often followed by a reaction, alarm, or discussion.
Example
“A question from one student set off a lively discussion about the book.”
Meaning
Cause a particular event, response, or process to start.
Tone & use
Used in everyday, technical, and news contexts. In sensitive contexts, take care: the word can also refer to emotional or physical responses.
Example
“The updated forecast triggered a change to the outdoor event plan.”
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