provoke

Vocabulary Word

Definition

'Provoke' means to cause or stir up a reaction, usually a negative one. It involves an act that stimulates, triggers, or initiates an unfavorable response.

Examples in Different Contexts

In contemporary art, some works aim to 'provoke' viewers to think critically. An artist might say, 'My installation seeks to provoke dialogue about environmental conservation.'

Practice Scenarios

Tech

Scenario:

There's a bug in the software that we can't seem to isolate. It only occurs under specific conditions.

Response:

We should try to provoke the error by replicating the specific conditions under which it occurs.

Business

Scenario:

With our next product launch, we need to create a buzz in the market that our competitors can't ignore.

Response:

I suggest aggressive marketing strategies to provoke a reaction from the market and outpace competitors.