What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
precipitate
Example
The heavy rain will precipitate flooding in low-lying areas. [precipitate: verb]
Example
The addition of the chemical will precipitate a reaction in the solution. [precipitate: noun]
provoke
Example
His rude comments provoked her to leave the room. [provoke: verb]
Example
The new policy may provoke resistance from employees. [provoke: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provoke is more commonly used than precipitate in everyday language, especially in the context of causing an emotional response. Precipitate is more technical and is often used in scientific or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between precipitate and provoke?
Precipitate is more formal than provoke, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
