provoke trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "provoke trouble" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing actions or behaviors that lead to conflict or difficulties. Example: "His reckless comments during the meeting seemed to provoke trouble among the team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The lawyers have been accused of using "sensitive cases" to "provoke trouble" online and offline.

Independent

"What I have done does not provoke trouble, but is mild advocacy that does not amount to any crime," Ms Li wrote.

Independent

"We will not be putting our members in any kind of danger or any situation that would provoke trouble," Mr. Cordero said.

The New York Times

Rich women wanted to stay rich; poor women to become so.The researchers' conclusion, then, is that if, like a subordinate Harris sparrow, you are not in a position to fight your corner, it makes sense not to provoke trouble.

The Economist

We live in a democracy where the right to protest is fundamental but with rights come responsibilities and there has to be limits on people who set out to terrorise, frighten and provoke trouble.

The Guardian - Opinion

Thirdly, he had no intention to incite ethnic hatred or pick quarrels and provoke trouble". .

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Mr Pu is also now in detention, for "provoking trouble".

The Economist

There is a familiarity, too, to the criticisms that police provoked trouble by heavy-handed tactics.

Independent

Then again, North Korea has a long history of provoking trouble when the South is preparing for major international events.

The New York Times

The businessmen complain that the police have adopted too much of a "softly-softly" approach in Bradford for fear of provoking trouble.

The Economist

They are out on bail, released en masse on April 13th, after the authorities declined to pursue charges of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive situations, consider using "provoke trouble" to highlight the instigating action, rather than focusing solely on the resulting conflict. This can help clarify the cause-and-effect relationship.

Common error

While "provoke trouble" is acceptable in news and general writing, it can sound informal in academic or professional settings. Opt for alternatives like "precipitate difficulties" or "exacerbate conflict" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provoke trouble" functions as a verb phrase where "provoke" is the transitive verb indicating the action of instigating or causing, and "trouble" is the noun serving as the direct object. Ludwig confirms this usage across various sources.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provoke trouble" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of instigating or causing conflict or difficulties. According to Ludwig, the phrase is employed mainly in news and media contexts, with a neutral level of formality. Alternative expressions like "cause problems", "stir up conflict", and "incite unrest" can be used, depending on the specific nuance required. When using "provoke trouble", it's essential to consider the audience and context, opting for more formal alternatives in academic or professional settings to maintain a sophisticated tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause problems

This alternative uses more generic terms, broadening the scope of the negative consequences beyond just "trouble".

stir up conflict

This alternative emphasizes the active instigation of disagreement or fighting.

incite unrest

This alternative suggests a more widespread and possibly violent form of disturbance.

generate discord

This alternative focuses on the creation of disagreement and lack of harmony.

foment disruption

This alternative implies deliberately creating chaos and interrupting normal operations.

precipitate difficulties

This alternative emphasizes hastening the arrival of challenges or hardships.

spark controversy

This alternative refers to igniting a public debate or dispute.

trigger chaos

This alternative emphasizes setting off a state of complete disorder and confusion.

brew problems

This alternative suggests that problems are being created slowly and steadily.

invite conflict

This alternative suggests making conflict more likely to occur.

FAQs

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

You can use "provoke trouble" to describe actions that instigate conflict, for example: "His inflammatory remarks were likely to "provoke trouble" at the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "provoke trouble"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "cause problems", "stir up conflict", or "incite unrest".

Is "provoke trouble" formal or informal?

"Provoke trouble" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal. In highly formal or academic writing, consider using more sophisticated alternatives.

What's the difference between "provoke trouble" and "cause trouble"?

"Provoke trouble" often implies a deliberate instigation, whereas "cause trouble" can encompass both intentional and unintentional actions that lead to problems.