CEFR C2 — Proficiency

Provoke

Definition

(formal) To cause someone to feel a strong emotion, especially anger or annoyance, or to cause a reaction or response, often by doing or saying something deliberately; to stimulate or incite something, such as a discussion or a reaction. Typically collocates with: anger, outrage, debate, controversy, violence, thought, discussion, reflection.

Example Sentences

1The artist's intention was to provoke a reaction from the audience, rather than simply to create a beautiful piece of art.

2The politician's comments were designed to provoke a debate about the role of government in the economy.

3The news of the natural disaster provoked an outpouring of sympathy and support from around the world.

4The teacher's question was meant to provoke thought and reflection among the students, rather than simply to elicit a factual response.

5The government's decision to raise taxes provoked widespread outrage and protests among the population.

More C2 Words

poise ancillary adumbrate confront prevail minefield

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