provoke

As a verb, this word is a useful single alternative to using a group of words to describe the action of 'being driven to take action or respond'.

It is used in the context of strong feelings; anger, frustration and similar.

In some sentences it can imply a deliberate intent of the perpetrator to provoke a response in another.

When using this word in spoken contexts give weight and full clarity to the sounds [p] and [k] if you wish to emphasise a sharp, sudden action.  Full stress falls on the second syllable of the word.

'Provoke' is certainly a word to use sparingly and with clear intent in order to preserve its inherent power.

coerce

This word is often found on the lead pages of national and international newspapers.  It arises where the ideas and desires of a people and their government diverge or are in conflict.

When I hear it, I pick up the sharpness, the hard edge, the rough impact of the word on the ear.  This gives it a compelling sensory texture when spoken clearly.

It's a verb that means 'to compel or restrain by force of authority without regard to individual wishes or desires'.

Arising from the Latin and used in 17 Century, it has remained true to is original meaning 'to confine or restrain'.