provocation
Translation
provocation, incitement, goading
Examples
He reacted calmly to the provocation.
He reacted calmly to the provocation.
The speech was an act of provocation.
The speech was an act of provocation.
Grammar Patterns
((a provocation)) ((to sb.)) an act intended to make sb. angry His comment was a provocation to the team.
((an act of provocation)) an action that is a provocation The military exercise was an act of provocation.
Similar Words
Synonyms: incitement, instigation, goading; Antonyms: appeasement, pacification
Etymology
From Latin 'pro-' (forth) + 'vocare' (to call). It means 'a calling forth' of a reaction.
Memory Tips
Think of 'pro' (for) + 'vocation' (a calling) – it's 'calling for' a reaction or a fight.