arouse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "arouse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate the act of stimulating or awakening a feeling, emotion, or physical response. Example: "The movie was designed to arouse a sense of nostalgia among its viewers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In a more logical and less volatile polity than ours – ie Germany – pre-election pacts can be a source of political stability, not of the opportunist hysteria they arouse here.

The Guardian - Opinion

There's more agitation for the 24-year-old singer, songwriter, poet, dramatist, actor and annoyingly nice over-achiever: he and his band failed to secure visas for this visit so opted not to bring any of their gear, lest they arouse the suspicion of US immigration.

The Guardian - Music

But their plight is unlikely to arouse public sympathy, since many are living in homes and areas unaffordable to most taxpayers an objection recognised by Labour itself in office.The other reform, lowering the LHA, will affect many more people and not just in London.

The Economist

This must be done quietly, so as not to arouse suspicion and drive up prices.

The Economist

The Islamist Shabab militia, which controls most of southern Somalia, is dedicated to hunting them down.Christian men attend mosques on Fridays, so as not to arouse suspicion.

The Economist

Claims based on intelligence sources are likely to arouse particular suspicion, and metaphors involving wolves to be avoided at all costs.Iraq has caused a further problem.

The Economist

To Mr Heinapuu and his pals, the Russian ire they arouse is a backhanded compliment.

The Economist

A new start?Jun 20th 2002Yet Mr Giscard d'Estaing continues to arouse suspicion on all sides.

The Economist

YOU might think that a policy issue which puts at stake hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of global output would arouse at least the casual interest of the world's economics and finance ministries.

The Economist

France 98, good or bad, will demonstrate yet again that sport has a power, rivalled only by war itself, to arouse not just the individual, but also the nation.Doing what comes naturallyConceivably this power could wane for some sports, but only if their promoters and participants succumb to greed and hubris.

The Economist

Yet radical welfare reform will inevitably arouse far more opposition than a trifling cut in benefits.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "arouse", ensure the context clarifies what is being stimulated, whether it's interest, suspicion, or a specific emotion. Ambiguity can dilute the impact of your message.

Common error

Avoid using "arouse" excessively in highly formal or academic writing where more neutral terms like "generate" or "elicit" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of "arouse" is to act as a transitive verb, indicating the action of evoking or stimulating a feeling, reaction, or state. Ludwig examples show it used to indicate evoking suspicion, interest, emotions, or ire.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "arouse" is a versatile verb used to describe the act of stimulating or provoking a feeling, reaction, or state. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, choosing "arouse" effectively hinges on the intended impact, and synonyms like evoke or stimulate may suit formal writing. Pay attention to what you are stimulating, whether it's emotions, suspicion, or interest. It's a commonly used and well-understood term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stir up

Implies to provoke or instigate a feeling, emotion, or reaction.

evoke

Suggests bringing a feeling, memory, or image into the mind.

kindle

Denotes sparking or igniting a feeling or emotion.

provoke

Indicates causing a specific reaction or emotion, often negative.

instigate

Signifies initiating an action or event, which can also be related to feelings or reactions.

excite

Implies generating enthusiasm or eagerness.

ignite

Suggests setting off a sudden or intense feeling.

stimulate

Denotes encouraging activity or development, including emotional or physical responses.

awaken

Indicates stirring up a feeling or emotion.

foment

Signifies instigating or promoting trouble or rebellion.

FAQs

How can I use "arouse" in a sentence?

You can use "arouse" to indicate stimulating a feeling or reaction, such as "The speaker's words aimed to arouse strong emotions".

What are some alternatives to "arouse"?

Alternatives to "arouse" include "evoke", "stimulate", or "provoke", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "arouse" and "excite"?

"Arouse" typically suggests a gradual build-up of feeling, whereas "excite" implies a more immediate and intense surge of emotion. A speaker might "arouse" interest, but "excite" enthusiasm.

When is it appropriate to use "arouse" in formal writing?

While "arouse" is acceptable, it's often better to use words like "elicit" or "generate" in formal writing to maintain a neutral tone.