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Provoking: meaning, definitions and examples

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provoking

 

[prəˈvəʊkɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Causing a strong and often negative reaction in others; deliberately stirring up conflict or emotions.

Synonyms

aggravating, annoying, inflammatory, irritating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
provoking

Used when something intentionally causes a strong reaction, emotion, or response. Can be both positive or negative.

  • His speech was provocative, stirring the emotions of the crowd
inflammatory

Used when something causes strong negative emotions or reactions, particularly anger or resentment.

  • His inflammatory comments about the policy ignited a heated debate
aggravating

Used when something makes a bad situation worse or causes increased irritation.

  • The constant noise from the construction site was incredibly aggravating
annoying

Used for something or someone causing mild irritation or discomfort.

  • Her habit of tapping the pen on the table was very annoying
irritating

Used for something that causes slight discomfort or annoyance, similar to 'annoying' but can also refer to physical discomfort.

  • The itchy sweater was incredibly irritating to wear

Examples of usage

  • He has a knack for making provoking comments that get under people's skin.
  • Her provoking behavior led to an argument with her colleagues.
  • The movie's provoking scenes sparked controversy among viewers.
Context #2 | Verb

reaction

To stimulate or incite (someone) to do or feel something, especially by arousing strong emotions.

Synonyms

arouse, evoke, prompt, trigger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
provoking

Use 'provoking' when something causes a strong reaction, often negative or emotional. It suggests irritation or anger in particular.

  • Her comments were quite provoking to the audience.
  • The film has many provoking scenes that challenge viewers.
arouse

Use 'arouse' when talking about stimulating curiosity, interest, or strong emotions. It often carries a positive connotation.

  • The mystery novel aroused his interest.
  • The speech aroused the crowd's enthusiasm.
trigger

Use 'trigger' when something causes a reaction, often suddenly and intensely, and typically in a psychological or medical context. It can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • Loud noises can trigger his anxiety.
  • The article triggered a lot of anger among readers.
prompt

Use 'prompt' when something causes an immediate action or response. It implies a quick reaction or decision.

  • The teacher’s question prompted a lively discussion.
  • The email prompted him to reply immediately.
evoke

Use 'evoke' when referring to something that brings a memory, feeling, or image to mind. It is often used in a literary or artistic context.

  • The old photograph evoked memories of her childhood.
  • The music in the movie evoked a sense of nostalgia.

Examples of usage

  • The article was written to provoke discussion on the topic.
  • Her words provoked fear in the audience.
  • The painting provoked strong emotions in everyone who viewed it.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'provocare', which means 'to call forth'.
  • It was used in the early 15th century in English, reflecting its current meaning.
  • Originally linked to law, implying someone was called to answer for their actions.

Psychology

  • Provoking someone can lead to a fight-or-flight response, showcasing how deeply emotions are wired into our reactions.
  • Studies show that provoking thoughts can be a tool in therapy to uncover hidden feelings and unresolved issues.
  • Certain provocative art can elicit strong emotional responses, leading to deeper reflection in viewers.

Literature

  • Provocation is a common theme in literature, often used to challenge characters' beliefs and promote growth.
  • Many poets use provocative language to elicit a reaction from their readers, creating powerful imagery and emotions.
  • Classic novels often include antagonists who provoke protagonists, driving the story's conflict.

Pop Culture

  • Provoking dialogue in films can lead to memorable movie quotes, like those in dramas that challenge societal norms.
  • Social media thrives on provocative content, sparking debates and discussions among diverse audiences.
  • Provocative advertising often creates buzz, catching attention and stirring emotionally charged reactions.

Art

  • Provocative art installations challenge viewers' perceptions and provoke thought about societal issues.
  • Street art often uses provocative imagery to comment on culture, politics, and identity.
  • Many modern artists use shock value in their work to provoke a response and challenge traditional norms.

Translations

Translations of the word "provoking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 provocando

🇮🇳 उकसाने वाला

🇩🇪 provozierend

🇮🇩 memprovokasi

🇺🇦 провокуючий

🇵🇱 prowokujący

🇯🇵 挑発的な (chōhatsu-teki na)

🇫🇷 provoquant

🇪🇸 provocador

🇹🇷 kışkırtıcı

🇰🇷 도발적인 (dobaljeog-in)

🇸🇦 استفزازي

🇨🇿 provokativní

🇸🇰 provokatívny

🇨🇳 挑衅的 (tiǎoxìn de)

🇸🇮 provokativen

🇮🇸 ögrandi

🇰🇿 арандатушы

🇬🇪 გამაღიზიანებელი (gamagizianebeli)

🇦🇿 təhrikedici

🇲🇽 provocador

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,947, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.