[Vocabulary] phrasal verbs

[dilodi83]

The film ........................(to spark off - to bring about) a lively discussion in the class.

In this sentence don't you think it could be possible to use both of them with a very small difference in meaning?

1) If I say "to spark off", it could mean that the discussion arises all of a sudden.
2) If I say "to bring about", it could mean that the discussion arises little by little and after a while it becomes lively...

What's your opinion?

 

[billmcd]

The film ........................(to spark off - to bring about) a lively discussion in the class.

In this sentence don't you think it could be possible to use both of them with a very small difference in meaning?

1) If I say "to spark off", it could mean that the discussion arises all of a sudden.
2) If I say "to bring about", it could mean that the discussion arises little by little and after a while it becomes lively...

What's your opinion?

It depends on what you want it to mean.

 

[dilodi83]

It depends on what you want it to mean.

Yes, of course, but are the shades of meaning I have pointed out correct?

 

[White Hat]

"to spark off" is better, when it comes to discussions, debates. You bring about changes, mostly.

 

[billmcd]

Yes, of course, but are the shades of meaning I have pointed out correct?

I think your distinctions are accurate/appropriate within the context you described.

 

[Tdol]

"to spark off" is better, when it comes to discussions, debates. You bring about changes, mostly.

I think it fits better as well.