provoke

Definition

  • verb: to cause the occurrence of (a feeling or action)
  • verb: to arouse to a feeling or action
  • sometimes + 'into'
  • synonyms: incite, stir up, anger

Examples

  • The results of the election have 'provoked' [='generated'] a lot of discussion.

  • He just says those things because he's trying to 'provoke' you.

  • His insults were intended to 'provoke' [='start'] a fight.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) I chose nothing. I was born, and this is what I am. And you? Why did you choose to love a god? I think you'll find the romance one-sided. Do you enjoy provoking me? You've dedicated your life to the gods. Zeus, god of thunder. Athena, goddess of wisdom. You serve them. - Yes, of course. (..)
    2004 Troy
  • (..) - So where did my top hat go? Nowhere. We tried the damn thing a dozen times. The hat went nowhere. We need to try different material. It may provoke a different result. Great. You are responsible for whatever happens to this animal, doctor. I hope whatever you were really doing with my money (..)
    2006 The Prestige
  • (..) Dr. King. Roy Reed of The New York Times. Yes. Hello to you. How are you? I'm well, sir. Thank you for asking. Dr. King, are you truly non-violent if you are provoking violence, sir? We are here, using our very bodies in protest - to say to those who deny us... - Dr. King. Dr. King. Pleasure, sir. (..)
    2014 Selma