Basic Details
Word: Provoke
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To cause someone to feel a strong emotion or to do something, often anger or irritation.
Synonyms: Incite, stir, irritate
Antonyms: Calm, soothe, pacify
Idioms and Phrases
- Provoke a reaction: To cause someone to respond, often emotionally. Example: "The surprising news was enough to provoke a reaction from everyone in the room."
- Provoke someone's ire: To make someone very angry. Example: "His careless remarks can easily provoke someone's ire, especially during a serious discussion."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Her constant teasing was enough to provoke him into shouting.
Example 2: The debate about the new rules could provoke strong opinions from the team.
Example 3: If you provoke the dog, it might bark or growl at you.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "provoke" comes from the Latin "provocare," which means "to call forth"? This highlights how provoking often involves drawing out emotions or actions from others.
Famous Quote
"The best way to provoke a fight is to pick a fight." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "provoke" mean?
a) To make someone happy
b) To cause a strong emotion or action
c) To confuse someone
d) To ignore someone
Answer: b) To cause a strong emotion or action
2. Which of these is a synonym of "provoke"?
a) Calm
b) Soothe
c) Incite
d) Comfort
Answer: c) Incite
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "provoke"?
a) Stir
b) Irritate
c) Pacify
d) Incite
Answer: c) Pacify
4. Which sentence correctly uses "provoke"?
a) The kind words seemed to provoke a smile from her.
b) I will provoke my gratitude when I receive help.
c) The calm weather can provoke a storm.
d) She tried to provoke the cat to sleep.
Answer: a) The kind words seemed to provoke a smile from her.
5. Which idiom describes causing someone to react strongly?
a) Provoke a reaction
b) Calm before the storm
c) Rain on someone's parade
d) Jumping on the bandwagon
Answer: a) Provoke a reaction
