provoke a reaction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "provoke a reaction" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to cause or elicit a response or emotion from someone or something. Example: The controversial article provoked a strong reaction from readers, with many expressing outrage and calling for a boycott of the publication.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That might provoke a reaction.

The Guardian

Did you like to provoke a reaction?

The Guardian - Music

"Even a heavy police presence will provoke a reaction".

Independent

Sometimes I'm going to try to provoke a reaction.

Independent

The move, on the eve of Holocaust Remembrance Day, seemed planned to provoke a reaction.

The New York Times

These writers want to wind you up and provoke a reaction.

The Guardian

Many complain the authorities are treating them as terrorists and trying to provoke a reaction.

The Guardian

Consequently, only the more grotesque attacks on this freedom tend to provoke a reaction on campus.

The New York Times

It sometimes felt like they were deliberately trying to see if they could provoke a reaction.

The Guardian

They also provoke a reaction, which, say Fat, is exactly what architecture should do.

The Guardian - Arts

"You need to put something crude on show to provoke a reaction in the public".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "provoke a reaction" when you want to emphasize the deliberate intention to cause a response, whether positive or negative.

Common error

Avoid using "provoke a reaction" when a more neutral term like "elicit" or "generate" would be more appropriate, especially if the intention is not to deliberately cause a stir.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provoke a reaction" functions as a verb phrase where "provoke" is a transitive verb requiring a direct object, in this case, "a reaction". It describes the act of intentionally causing a response. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Arts

15%

General

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provoke a reaction" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that signifies the act of intentionally causing a response, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is commonly found in news and media, as well as in discussions about arts and general topics. While the phrase maintains a generally neutral register, the choice to use it implies a deliberate effort to elicit a response, whether emotional, intellectual, or behavioral. Related phrases include "trigger a reaction" and "elicit a response", each with slightly different nuances. When using "provoke a reaction", consider whether the context truly involves a deliberate attempt to cause a response or if a more neutral alternative would be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

trigger a reaction

Suggests an automatic or immediate response to a stimulus.

spur a reaction

Emphasizes initiating a quick or sudden response.

evoke a reaction

Focuses on bringing forth an emotional or subconscious response.

prompt a response

Indicates encouraging or urging a reaction.

elicit a response

Formal and neutral, focusing on drawing out a specific response.

draw a response

Indicates attracting or pulling out a reaction from someone.

incite a reaction

Implies stirring up a strong or potentially negative response.

generate a response

Highlights the creation or production of a reaction.

invite a response

Implies opening the door for a reaction to occur.

solicit a reaction

Suggests actively seeking or requesting a response.

FAQs

How can I use "provoke a reaction" in a sentence?

You can use "provoke a reaction" to describe actions or statements that are intended to cause a response from someone. For example, "The politician's controversial speech was designed to provoke a reaction from the public".

What does it mean to "provoke a reaction"?

To "provoke a reaction" means to intentionally cause someone or something to respond in a particular way, often emotionally or forcefully.

What can I say instead of "provoke a reaction"?

You can use alternatives like "trigger a reaction", "elicit a response", or "incite a reaction" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "provoke a reaction" formal or informal?

"Provoke a reaction" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though in very formal settings, "elicit a response" might be preferred.