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 In the complicated, thorny, offensive, manipulative, sometimes hilarious, sometimes uncomfortable video interview, which evokes the feeling of an uncle sitting down with his hardheaded nephew, Thug is reeling and full of so much anxiety that his legs are shaking. Alphonse Pierre, Pitchfork, 11 Sep. 2025 Commentators in the Indian press have evoked visions of Hong Kong and Singapore while speaking of its future. M. Rajshekhar, Time, 11 Sep. 2025 That play is not part of Wilson’s renowned Century Cycle, a collection of 10 plays set in Wilson’s hometown of Pittsburgh that aim to evoke the Black experience across every decade of the 20th century. Liz Rothaus Bertrand, Charlotte Observer, 11 Sep. 2025 Those dynamics may lead not only to better underwriting results but could also evoke stronger risk cultures inside the companies themselves. Jason Phillips, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for evoke
Recent Examples of Synonyms for evoke
Verb
  • That balance is hard to strike, but the sound design elicits emotions in every one of the pivotal scenes.
    Joan MacDonald, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
  • While Cook’s position remains in limbo, newly confirmed Fed governor Miran has elicited concerns from Democrats over his close ties with the president.
    Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 16 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Oysters inspired the researchers because of their remarkable ability to attach to rocks, bridge pilings, or even each other in the harsh underwater environment.
    Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Odighizuwa said watching his mother’s struggles and strength inspired him to want to help others in the same situation.
    Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

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