What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incitement
Example
The politician's speech was seen as an incitement to violence. [incitement: noun]
Example
She was charged with incitement to riot. [incitement: noun]
provocation
Example
His insults were a clear provocation to start a fight. [provocation: noun]
Example
She didn't mean to provoke him, but her words had that effect. [provoke: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provocation is more commonly used than incitement in everyday language. Provocation is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while incitement is less common and often associated with more serious or harmful actions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incitement and provocation?
Both incitement and provocation are formal words that are typically used in legal or academic contexts. However, incitement is often associated with more serious or harmful actions and may have a stronger formal tone.