provokes discontent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "provokes discontent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, action, or statement that causes dissatisfaction or unrest among individuals or groups. Example: "The new policy implemented by the management provokes discontent among the employees, leading to a decline in morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But when the markets fell, some of those technocrats were torn between long-term political imperatives (reform in order to avoid stagnation) and short-term political needs (stop the hemorrhaging before it provokes discontent).

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The remark provoked discontent in military circles.

The New York Times

Opponents of one-party rule, it says, "have stirred up trouble about disclosing officials' assets, using the Internet to fight corruption, media controls and other sensitive topics, to provoke discontent with the party and government".

The New York Times

He said sanctions now being proposed against Tehran were "intended to have a smothering effect on the Iranian economy and the Iranian population, probably in the hopes of provoking discontent".

The New York Times

Bishop Myers may be outspoken and opinionated, but the Rev. Donald Levitt, a priest at Christ the King Church in Moline, Ill., said the bishop was loath to provoke discontent among his flock.

The New York Times

The growing dominance of the executive branch, particularly Somare and his son Arthur, had provoked discontent among the public as well as in the legislature and among some ministers, and the political opposition, led by Morauta and Philemon, attempted to mount a parliamentary vote of no confidence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The deal provoked discontent among some major Rio shareholders who complained that the deal only favors the Chinese company.

Forbes

Gaveston's arrogance and power as Edward's favourite provoked discontent both among the barons and the French royal family, and Edward was forced to exile him.

Wikipedia

Harrison's first term as president provoked widespread discontent.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Dane's display provoked grumbling discontent, at best, from the locals.

The Guardian - Sport

It can also backfire, because repression in some Arab states has provoked fresh discontent and radicalisation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "provokes discontent" to describe situations that lead to active opposition or demonstrable unhappiness, not just passive dissatisfaction. This helps to convey the gravity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "provokes discontent" for minor annoyances or trivial disagreements. Reserve this phrase for situations where the dissatisfaction is significant and widespread. For less intense scenarios, consider alternatives like "causes mild annoyance" or "generates slight unease".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provokes discontent" functions as a verb phrase, where "provokes" is the transitive verb and "discontent" is its direct object. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct. The phrase indicates something causes a feeling of dissatisfaction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provokes discontent" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something that causes dissatisfaction or unrest. As Ludwig AI validates, this phrase is correct. It finds its primary application in news and media, encyclopedias, and to a lesser extent, in scientific and formal business contexts. While the phrase is suitable for formal and neutral writing, it's important to avoid overusing it in situations where the dissatisfaction is minor. Consider alternatives like "causes dissatisfaction" or "engenders unrest" to maintain clarity and precision in your writing. Using "provokes discontent" when the dissatisfaction is severe ensures that the gravity of the situation is accurately conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

causes dissatisfaction

Replaces "provokes" with "causes" and "discontent" with "dissatisfaction", offering a more direct synonym.

arouses dissatisfaction

Similar to "causes dissatisfaction", but with a slightly more literary feel using "arouses".

engenders dissatisfaction

Uses "engenders" to mean "causes" and "dissatisfaction" for "discontent", presenting a slightly more formal tone.

creates unrest

Substitutes "provokes" with "creates" and "discontent" with "unrest", focusing on the resulting disturbance.

fuels resentment

Employs "fuels" to signify intensifying negative feelings, replacing "discontent" with "resentment" to highlight a stronger emotion.

gives rise to unrest

A more descriptive alternative that highlights the consequential nature of the action leading to "unrest".

generates frustration

Highlights the feeling of being thwarted or annoyed, using "frustration" as a synonym for "discontent".

sparks displeasure

Replaces "provokes" with "sparks" and "discontent" with "displeasure", suggesting a more immediate and noticeable reaction.

fosters antagonism

Indicates the creation of hostility or opposition, replacing "discontent" with a more active form of negativity.

instigates opposition

Focuses on the action of inciting resistance, substituting "discontent" with "opposition" to emphasize the active response.

FAQs

How can I use "provokes discontent" in a sentence?

Use "provokes discontent" to describe actions or policies that lead to widespread dissatisfaction or unrest. For example, "The new tax policy provokes discontent among the lower and middle classes."

What are some synonyms for "provokes discontent"?

Alternatives include "causes dissatisfaction", "engenders unrest", or "fuels resentment". Choose the synonym that best fits the specific nuance of the situation.

Is "provokes discontent" formal or informal?

"Provokes discontent" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, such as news reports or academic papers. However, consider using more straightforward language like "causes dissatisfaction" in informal settings.

What's the difference between "provokes discontent" and "creates discomfort"?

"Provokes discontent" implies a stronger negative reaction, suggesting dissatisfaction and potential unrest, whereas "creates discomfort" indicates a milder feeling of unease or awkwardness.