Synonym Chooser

How does the verb evoke contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of evoke are educe, elicit, extort, and extract. While all these words mean "to draw out something hidden, latent, or reserved," evoke implies a strong stimulus that arouses an emotion or an interest or recalls an image or memory.

a song that evokes warm memories

In what contexts can educe take the place of evoke?

The synonyms educe and evoke are sometimes interchangeable, but educe implies the bringing out of something potential or latent.

educed order out of chaos

When would elicit be a good substitute for evoke?

The words elicit and evoke are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, elicit usually implies some effort or skill in drawing forth a response.

careful questioning elicited the truth

When can extort be used instead of evoke?

The words extort and evoke can be used in similar contexts, but extort suggests a wringing or wresting from one who resists strongly.

extorted their cooperation by threatening to inform

When is it sensible to use extract instead of evoke?

While in some cases nearly identical to evoke, extract implies the use of force or pressure in obtaining answers or information.

extracted a confession from him

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of evoke Julieta Venegas adds this soft-rock ditty to her long list of memorable songs, a standout for its imaginative lyrics that evoke teenage wonder. Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 31 Dec. 2024 At the same time, each movement evokes the fear and despair and endurance that defined his experience as a prisoner. Jon Lee Anderson, The New Yorker, 30 Dec. 2024 Notably, the ban does not include rare earths, but the prohibition evoked a 2010 incident in which China temporarily cut all rare earth sales to Japan after a fishing dispute. IEEE Spectrum, 27 Dec. 2024 The rebuilt inn evokes its 19th-century history but has the modern touches today’s travelers need. Beth Luberecki, USA TODAY, 17 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for evoke 

Thesaurus Entries Near evoke

Cite this Entry

“Evoke.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/evoke. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.

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