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

Example 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 The signing evoked memories of San Francisco signing Randy Johnson for the 2009 season, which ended up being the last of his career. Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 28 Mar. 2025 The comment evoked a ripple of sympathetic laughter. Nancy Kruh, People.com, 27 Mar. 2025 Looking for a baby name that evokes beauty and glamour? Lydia Wang, Parents, 27 Mar. 2025 To ride the tournament’s wave of excitement, companies tend to craft limited-edition releases that evoke Augusta’s mystique—without explicitly naming the event or infringing on trademarks. Mike Dojc, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for evoke

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Cite this Entry

“Evoke.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/evoke. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

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