What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
provoking
Example
The movie was very provoking and left me thinking about it for days. [provoking: adjective]
Example
Her words were meant to provoke him into taking action. [provoke: verb]
exasperating
Example
It's exasperating when people don't listen to what you're saying. [exasperating: adjective]
Example
The constant delays and setbacks were exasperating for the team. [exasperate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exasperating is more commonly used than provoking in everyday language. Exasperating is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while provoking is less common and is often used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between provoking and exasperating?
Both provoking and exasperating are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.