provoke discussions

USAGE SUMMARY

"provoke discussions" is correct and usable in written English.
It means to cause or stimulate conversations or debates. Example: The controversial topic of climate change is known to provoke discussions among scientists and policymakers.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Ms. Miller's thoughtful, vibrating sensibility will also provoke discussions afterward.

The New York Times

Lessons are based on a list of key words, used to provoke discussions.

The Guardian

"The point of this is to provoke discussions around Chilcot and it already has, which is great," he said.

The Guardian

BOUSHRA ALMUTAWAKEL, a Yemeni photographer, aims to provoke discussions about social norms and question the ways people and cultures judge one another.

The Economist

As the ship travels around, the it organizers hope, it will provoke discussions and offer support to women who want to change the laws in their countries.

The New York Times

Thanassis Moutsopoulos, an art historian who curated the well-received "Hidden Athens," which ended in mid-December, said such shows are intended to provoke discussions about the city and its future.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

In Oslo, Shabana Rehman describes her use of stand-up comedy to provoke discussion between cultures.

The Economist

So, this online magazine is actually our very modest effort to educated people, to provoke discussion.

University of California, Berkeley

"They're really trying to provoke discussion and are asking tough questions," he says.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Different analysts prefer their own classifications, so there will be a lot here to provoke discussion.

The New York Times

"I hope to hold a mirror up to society and provoke discussion.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "provoke discussions" when you want to emphasize the act of intentionally causing or stimulating conversation, especially on topics that might be sensitive or controversial.

Common error

Avoid using "provoke discussions" when a more neutral term like "encourage discussions" or "facilitate conversations" would be more appropriate. "Provoke" can sometimes imply a desire to stir up conflict or disagreement, which might not always be your intention.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "provoke discussions" is as a verb phrase acting as a transitive verb with a noun phrase as its direct object. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where the phrase clearly indicates causing or stimulating conversations. It describes an action taken to initiate dialogue.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provoke discussions" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for describing the initiation of conversations or debates. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a transitive verb phrase, commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While "provoke" can carry a connotation of stirring up controversy, in this construction, it generally implies stimulating thought and dialogue. When considering alternatives, options like "spark conversations" or "stimulate dialogue" can offer a more neutral tone, if needed. Remember to use "provoke discussions" when the intent is to deliberately instigate conversation, especially on topics that might be sensitive or require careful consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inspire conversations

Highlights the act of motivating or encouraging discussions.

spark conversations

Focuses on initiating a conversation, implying a lighter, less confrontational start.

stimulate dialogue

Highlights the encouragement of an ongoing exchange of ideas.

give rise to discussions

Indicates that something leads naturally or inevitably to discussions.

initiate discourse

Refers to starting a formal and extended discussion on a topic.

foster debates

Suggests creating an environment that encourages structured arguments.

prompt deliberations

Emphasizes causing careful and thorough considerations.

ignite debate

Suggests a sudden and intense start to a debate.

incite arguments

Implies a stronger, potentially negative, stimulation of disagreement.

generate controversy

Indicates the creation of widespread public disagreement and debate.

FAQs

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

You can use "provoke discussions" to describe actions or events that stimulate conversation or debate. For example: "The documentary aimed to provoke discussions about social inequality."

What are some alternatives to "provoke discussions"?

Alternatives include "spark conversations", "stimulate dialogue", or "foster debates", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "provoke discussions" or "encourage discussions"?

The choice depends on the context. "Provoke discussions" implies a deliberate attempt to initiate debate, potentially on controversial topics, while "encourage discussions" suggests a more general effort to foster open communication.

How does "provoke discussions" differ from "generate controversy"?

"Provoke discussions" focuses on stimulating conversation, which may or may not be controversial. "Generate controversy" indicates the creation of widespread public disagreement, implying a more negative outcome.