What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exacerbate
Example
The hot weather exacerbated his asthma symptoms. [exacerbated: verb]
Example
Her constant nagging only served to exacerbate the situation. [exacerbate: verb]
provoke
Example
His rude comments provoked her anger. [provoked: verb]
Example
The dog was provoked by the children throwing rocks at it. [provoked: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provoke is more commonly used than exacerbate in everyday language. Provoke is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while exacerbate is more specific and often used in medical or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between exacerbate and provoke?
Exacerbate has a more formal and serious connotation, while provoke can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
