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 President Trump's plan for the U.S. to take over the Gaza Strip and relocate nearly 2 million people residing there has evoked criticism from allies and foes alike. Brittney Melton, NPR, 6 Feb. 2025 The Ethereal Worlds of Maxfield Parrish, features 25 original works of art that blend idealized realism with lush landscapes and figures that evoke both a romantic and fantastical sense of beauty. Kari Barnett, Sun Sentinel, 4 Feb. 2025 Many of the questions from his turn-of-the-century list still evoked his vision, allowing the idea of a complete mathematics to survive in narrower contexts. Joseph Howlett, Quanta Magazine, 3 Feb. 2025 Enlisting three actors with distinct styles — global ambassador Shu Qi, ambassador Yo Yang and actor Fan Wei — evokes emotional resonance across generations. WWD, 29 Jan. 2025 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 16 Feb. 2025.

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