goad

What does “goad” mean?

verb.to provoke or annoy (someone) so as to stimulate some action or reaction.

SAT Usage

the term is often found in contexts involving conflict, motivation, or social dynamics, emphasizing the act of provoking someone to elicit a specific response. It suggests a more intentional and sometimes manipulative action than similar words like "encourage" or "motivate," which imply support rather than irritation or provocation.

Common Confusions

Goad implies provoking someone to elicit a specific reaction, while encourage usually suggests offering support or motivation without the intent to irritate or annoy.

Example Sentences

• The taunts were designed to goad him into making a rash decision.

• His relentless teasing seemed meant to goad her into an argument, but she remained calm and composed, refusing to rise to the bait.