Word
invoke
Meanings
to use a rule, law, or authority to support an action or argument
to call on a power or higher being for help, often in a ritual or prayer
to bring a strong feeling, image, or memory to mind
Definition
To invoke something is to call on it for support, authority, or an effect.
To invoke means to call on something, especially a rule, power, principle, or memory, so it can be used or have an effect. It is often used in formal contexts such as law, policy, debate, or writing. You can invoke an authority to justify an action, or invoke an idea to create a particular feeling or image.
Examples
- The lawyer tried to invoke precedent to strengthen his argument in court.
- In her opening remarks, the speaker invoked shared values to calm the room.
- During the ceremony, they invoked protection for everyone travelling home.
- That scent can invoke childhood memories even when I least expect it.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "invoke" with "evoke"; use "invoke" for calling on authority or powers, and "evoke" mainly for bringing feelings or images to mind.
More at C1 level
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- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More verbs
- analyze To examine something carefully in order to understand it or explain it.
- scrutinize To scrutinize something is to examine it very carefully and in detail.
- affect To affect something is to influence it or cause it to change.
- allude To allude means to mention or suggest something indirectly without saying it clearly.
- elude To elude someone or something is to avoid being caught, understood, or remembered.