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 Adventureland has gotten better in retrospect — a movie that’s anchored by killer needle drops from the ’80s, sharp supporting turns by Stewart and Bill Hader, and a humanity that evokes Eisenberg’s more recent directorial debut, A Real Pain. Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 2 Aug. 2025 The frame, the faux fuel tank, the stance all evoke that unmistakable café racer vibe. New Atlas, 1 Aug. 2025 The titles listed below evoke the K-drama at its best—exploring the depths of human emotion, the power of community, and the importance of truth—and, in many ways, a level of quality that's become harder to find. Geoffrey Bunting, Time, 1 Aug. 2025 Native American culture provides a rich selection of alternative names, many of which evoke the baking heat of summer. Tom Hawking, Popular Science, 31 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for evoke
Recent Examples of Synonyms for evoke
Verb
  • The play elicited the loudest cheers from the crowd all night.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 3 Aug. 2025
  • The initial setback elicited some frustration from Moutet.
    Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 27 July 2025
Verb
  • The smells that inspire the fragrance mastermind at Hermès By Linda Wells Photo-Illustration: Chop Choppish Shop Read On Machine-Head Slumber Party New cutting-edge earbuds block noise and lull you to sleep.
    Jeanne Malle, Air Mail, 7 Aug. 2025
  • The haunted house, inspired by the iconic 80s horror film of the same name, first featured at the annual mecca for horror fans in 2018.
    Simon Thompson, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Evoke.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/evoke. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

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