Provokable
Provokable describes something or someone capable of being incited to a strong emotional response, especially anger, annoyance, or irritation. This term suggests a vulnerability to external stimuli designed to elicit a reaction. It implies a disposition to react in a certain way given the right conditions. The level of provocation can range from a slight tease to a significant threat. The entity described can be a person, animal, a system or even a social construct like a government or a market. provokable suggests a susceptibility to manipulation or exploitation through triggering specific emotional or behavioral responses. The degree of provokability depends on the individual's or system's inherent characteristics and past experiences. It is the potential for external actions to cause an internal shift.
Provokable meaning with examples
- The dog, easily provokable by sudden noises, would bark incessantly at the postman's arrival, making deliveries difficult for the whole neighborhood. The dog's behavior was not intentional; it was just an automatic response. It reacted on cue. It was a reflexive response, an involuntary reaction to an external agent or set of stimuli.
- The politician, known for his easily provokable temper, frequently lost composure during press conferences. This made it very easy for his political opponents to score easy victories, leading to his downfall and removal from office. The more he was provoked, the more his opponents would take advantage of his flaws.
- The security system, while advanced, proved provokable by experienced hackers who discovered a specific vulnerability. They managed to bypass many features and safety precautions, enabling them to access the sensitive data. They could successfully make a backdoor, circumventing the system's designed defenses. They undermined everything.
- Her brother, extremely provokable when teased about his old car, would fly into a rage, giving them ample opportunities for enjoyment at his expense. He could be easily angered, making the task of irritating him as fun as shooting fish in a barrel. His predictable response provided amusement.
- The online forum's moderation team worked tirelessly to filter out provokable content, seeking to maintain a civil and productive environment. They were charged with monitoring any potential incitements that might give rise to a chaotic environment. The task was a thankless one, though. There was no easy way to police the online activities.