trigger vs actuate

trigger is a noun but actuate is not a noun.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
trigger	Yes	No	Yes	No
actuate	No	No	Yes	No

As verbs, trigger and actuate are synonyms defined as:

Other synonyms of trigger include activate, set off, spark, spark off, touch off, trigger off, trip.

trigger (noun)	actuate (noun)
an act that sets in motion some course of events
lever that activates the firing mechanism of a gun
a device that activates or releases or causes something to happen

trigger (verb)	actuate (verb)
release or pull the trigger on	put in motion or move to act
put in motion or move to act	give an incentive for action