CEFR C1

provocation

noun

Meaning

An action or speech that makes someone annoyed or angry, especially deliberately, often leading to a strong reaction.

Examples

The politician's inflammatory speech was seen as a clear provocation to violence.
She tried to remain calm despite the constant provocation from her opponent.

Synonyms: annoyance, irritation, incitement, goading

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provocation (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /ˌprɒvəˈkeɪʃən/

Definition

An action or speech that makes someone annoyed or angry, especially deliberately, often leading to a strong reaction.

Examples

The politician's inflammatory speech was seen as a clear provocation to violence.
She tried to remain calm despite the constant provocation from her opponent.
Without any provocation, the dog suddenly barked aggressively at the stranger.

How to Use provocation

provocation for (prepositional phrase): A reason or cause for something, often negative. — "The new law became a provocation for widespread protests."
provocation to (prepositional phrase): An action intended to incite a specific reaction or behavior. — "His remarks were a deliberate provocation to anger."
on provocation (prepositional phrase): In response to being provoked. — "The animal will only attack on provocation."

Synonyms of provocation

Words with a similar meaning to provocation:

Antonyms of provocation

Words with the opposite meaning to provocation:

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