French word

provocation

Pronunciation

IPA/pʁovokasjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • feminine nounprovocation

Example

Ne réponds pas à la provocation, reste calme.

Don't respond to the provocation; stay calm.

Illustration for provocation (provocation)

More examples

Elle cherche la provocation pour attirer l'attention.

She seeks provocation to attract attention.

Core concept

A deliberate verbal or behavioral poke that draws an emotional response.

Common phrases

  • éviter la provocation

    avoid provocation

  • subir une provocation

    be subjected to provocation

  • chercher la provocation

    seek provocation

Similar words

insulte: A word or expression that insults someone and harms their dignity.
moquerie: Words or behavior that mock someone and make them look foolish.
taquinerie: Lighthearted teasing directed at someone in a playful, familiar way.
offense: A remark or action that hurts someone's feelings and causes anger or distress.

Definition in French

Action ou parole visant délibérément à provoquer une réaction, souvent hostile ou émotionnelle.

Word origin

French provocation comes from Latin provocatio, from provocare, meaning "to call forth," and names an act that calls forth a response.

Usage tips

  • The usual construction is répondre à une provocation, with the preposition à as in the example.

Other meanings

  • tauntnoun

Opposites

  • apaisementappeasementnoun
  • modérationmoderationnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word