provoke outrage

USAGE SUMMARY

"provoke outrage" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to actions or statements that generate strong feelings of anger or disapproval. For example: "The comments of the politician provoked outrage from the public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One can only hope that it was to provoke outrage.

The New York Times - Arts

The N.F.L.'s last bounty scandal of note did not provoke outrage or condemnation.

The New York Times - Sports

Qaddafi seemed determined to provoke outrage, particularly in his support for the Palestinian cause.

The New Yorker

A CONTEMPORARY work of art can provoke outrage disproportionate to its artistic merit.

The Economist

Some big British firms minimise their tax bills so aggressively that they provoke outrage.

The Economist

Their treatment, more than any other controversy, should provoke outrage, say human-rights groups.

The Economist

China's traditional filtering methods were bound to provoke outrage since they led to over-blocking of popular web sites.

Harvard University

Just the phrase "positive action" is enough to provoke outrage and indignation in some people.

The Guardian

When the institute announced its agenda in May, it was vague in the extreme.Even neutered bodies, however, can provoke outrage.

The Economist

Tales of poor service provoke outrage on social media and go viral despite companies' best efforts to contain them.

Harvard Business Review

But Pakistani and American officials deny it, saying that any such activity would provoke outrage throughout Pakistan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provoke outrage", ensure the subject of the phrase is clearly defined. For example, specify whose actions or words "provoke outrage" and from whom the outrage is directed.

Common error

Avoid using "provoke outrage" merely for dramatic effect. Ensure that the situation genuinely warrants a strong negative reaction, rather than employing it to exaggerate a minor issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provoke outrage" functions as a verb phrase, where "provoke" acts as a transitive verb requiring a direct object (outrage). It describes the act of causing a strong negative reaction. Ludwig AI confirms that is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provoke outrage" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe actions or statements that cause strong negative reactions. Ludwig AI confirms this, highlighting its frequent usage in reputable sources. As demonstrated by the examples provided, it's most frequently found in news and media contexts. Alternatives such as "spark indignation" or "incite fury" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using "provoke outrage", it's important to clearly identify the subject causing the outrage and the group experiencing it to ensure clarity and avoid sensationalism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spark indignation

Focuses on inciting a sense of righteous anger or moral offense.

incite fury

Highlights the instigation of intense anger and rage.

elicit condemnation

Highlights obtaining strong disapproval and censure.

trigger anger

Suggests setting off a pre-existing potential for anger.

generate controversy

Emphasizes causing public debate and disagreement, not necessarily outrage.

arouse animosity

Highlights stirring up strong dislike or hostility.

stir up resentment

Focuses on causing bitterness and discontent.

give rise to disapproval

Indicates causing a sentiment of disagreement or objection.

cause offense

Focuses on causing hurt feelings or disrespect.

invite criticism

Emphasizes attracting negative feedback and evaluation.

FAQs

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

You can use "provoke outrage" to describe actions or statements that cause strong feelings of anger or disapproval, for example: "The politician's comments about immigration provoked outrage among many voters."

What's the difference between "provoke outrage" and "spark indignation"?

"Provoke outrage" generally refers to causing strong anger or disapproval, while "spark indignation" specifically emphasizes inciting a sense of righteous anger or moral offense.

What can I say instead of "provoke outrage"?

You can use alternatives like "incite fury", "elicit condemnation", or "generate controversy" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "provoke an outrage"?

While grammatically understandable, "provoke outrage" is more common and natural-sounding than "provoke an outrage". "Outrage" is often used as an uncountable noun in this context.