provoke

US /prəˈvoʊk/
UK /prəˈvoʊk/
"provoke" picture
1.

stimulate or incite (someone) to do or feel something, especially by arousing anger in them

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His rude comments provoked her to anger.
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The politician's speech was designed to provoke a strong reaction from the public.
:
inciteexcitestimulategoadantagonizeannoyirritateangerenrageinfuriate
2.

deliberately make (someone) angry or annoyed

:
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He tried to provoke me into an argument.
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Don't provoke the dog, it might bite.
:
annoyirritateangerenrageinfuriateexasperatenettlevexpiqueruffle
3.

cause a strong reaction, especially a negative one

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The new policy is likely to provoke widespread protests.
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His comments provoked a storm of criticism.
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causeproducecreategenerateinduceelicitsparktriggerpromptgive rise to
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thought-provoking