Provocation
/ˌprɒvəˈkeɪʃən/
Definitions
An action or statement that causes annoyance or anger, especially deliberately.
/ˌprɒvəˈkeɪʃən/
An action or speech that makes someone annoyed or angry, especially deliberately.
His constant teasing was a deliberate provocation.
💡 Simply: It's like when someone does something on purpose to make you mad. Like, your little brother keeps poking you until you yell – that's provocation!
👶 For kids: When someone does something to make you angry on purpose.
More Examples
The government condemned the border incident as a provocation.
Her silence was, in itself, a kind of provocation.
How It's Used
"The ambassador's remarks were seen as a provocation by the opposing nation."
"He responded to her provocation with a calm demeanor."
"The jury found the defendant guilty of assault, rejecting the claim of provocation."
Idioms & expressions
incitement to violence
The act of encouraging others to commit violence.
"The politician's speech was considered incitement to violence, leading to legal action."
a source of provocation
Something that frequently causes anger or annoyance.
"His constant delays were a source of provocation for the entire team."
From Latin *provocatio* ('a calling forth, challenge'), from *provocare* ('to call forth, challenge'), from *pro* ('forth') + *vocare* ('to call').
The word 'provocation' has been used in English since the 16th century, initially in a legal context to describe inciting or challenging another to a legal action or conflict. Its usage has expanded to encompass emotional and social contexts.
Memory tip
Think of it as an intentional 'call to anger.'
Practice
Word Origin
Root: pro- (forth) + vocare (to call)