synonym Comparative
挑発
VS
揶揄
Differences Between "挑発" and "揶揄"
Option A
挑発
Meaning
provocation; seduction; teasing; inciting action
Reading
ちょう発 (ちょうはつ / chōhatsu)
Syllabus Level
N3
Practical Example
対立するサッカーチームのサポーターたちは、試合前からお互いに激しい_______を繰り返していました。
The supporters of the opposing soccer teams repeated fierce provocations against each other even before the match.
Option B
揶揄
Meaning
teasing, ridiculing, making fun of
Reading
やゆ (yayu)
Syllabus Level
N1
Practical Example
彼はいつも友人たちにからかわれ、揶揄されていた。
He was always teased and ridiculed by his friends.
Which one to use?
Select the correct Japanese word for this context
Which word fits this context: "(provocation; seduction; teasing; inciting action)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- 挑発: Refers to a provocation, seduction, or teasing to incite a reaction or action from others. Often used as 挑発する or 挑発的な態度 (provocative attitude). ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Provocation! Seduction! 'Are you going to ignore me and focus only on work?' ...っ, Respond quickly to my cute provocation and let's go on a date right now!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『ちょうはつ（挑発）よ！『そんなに仕事ばかりして、私をほったらかしにする気？』って、私のこの可愛い挑発（甘いおねだり）に乗って、早く仕事を切り上げてデートに行きましょう！バカ！』
- 揶揄: Often implies lighthearted mockery or playful teasing, but can also be sarcastic or belittling depending on context. Not as harsh as 侮辱 (bujoku - insult). (からかう、嘲笑する)
- 挑発: Refers to a provocation, seduction, or teasing to incite a reaction or action from others. Often used as 挑発する or 挑発的な態度 (provocative attitude). ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Provocation! Seduction! 'Are you going to ignore me and focus only on work?' ...っ, Respond quickly to my cute provocation and let's go on a date right now!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『ちょうはつ（挑発）よ！『そんなに仕事ばかりして、私をほったらかしにする気？』って、私のこの可愛い挑発（甘いおねだり）に乗って、早く仕事を切り上げてデートに行きましょう！バカ！』
- 揶揄: Often implies lighthearted mockery or playful teasing, but can also be sarcastic or belittling depending on context. Not as harsh as 侮辱 (bujoku - insult). (からかう、嘲笑する)
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