What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
induce
Example
The medicine will induce sleep. [induce: verb]
Example
The teacher tried to induce the students to participate in the class discussion. [induce: verb]
provoke
Example
The article provoked a strong reaction from readers. [provoke: verb]
Example
He was provoked by her constant teasing. [provoke: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provoke is more commonly used than induce in everyday language. Provoke is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while induce is less common and is often used in formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between induce and provoke?
Induce is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as medicine or science, while provoke is often used in informal or everyday language, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.