Compare the Difference Between Similar Terms

Difference Between

Home / Language / Words / Difference Between Invoke and Evoke

Difference Between Invoke and Evoke

February 25, 2017 Posted by Hasa

Key Difference – Invoke vs Evoke
 

Invoke and evoke are two verbs that are often misused by many English learners. However, there is a major difference between invoke and evoke in terms of their meaning and usage. Evoke means to bring forth something to the conscious mind whereas invoke means to call on a deity or spirit in prayer, or as witness. The key difference between invoke and evoke is that invoke is a more direct and an active verb than evoke.

CONTENTS
1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What Does Invoke Mean
3. What Does Evoke Mean
4. Side by Side Comparison – Invoke vs Evoke
5. Summary

What Does Invoke Mean?

Invoke basically means to call upon something, especially aid or assistance. This verb is typically used when referring to the aid of a higher power such as a deity. The Oxford dictionary defines the verb invoke as “call on (a deity or spirit) in prayer, as a witness, or for inspiration” and American Heritage dictionary defines it as “to call on (a higher power) for assistance, support, or inspiration”. The following example sentences will help you to understand this meaning more clearly.

The old priest invoked the Holy Spirit for aid.

Stretching out his hands, the shaman invoked the Goddess of War.

The priests held a religious ceremony to invoke the deity.

Invoke can also mean to cite or appeal to something in support or justification.

He invoked the name of Henry II to prove his point.

The prisoner invoked his right to an attorney.

Difference Between Invoke and Evoke

Figure 1: Example Sentence of Invoke – ” The old man invoked the guardian spirits “.

What Does Evoke Mean?

Evoke basically means to recall something to the conscious mind. Evoke is typically used with regard to memory or emotions. The American Heritage Dictionary defines evoke as “to call to mind, as by suggestion, association, or reference” and the Oxford Dictionary defines it as “bring or recall (a feeling, memory, or image) to the conscious mind”. Look at the following sentences to understand the meaning of this verb more clearly.

His passionate words evoked the ugly memories of the war.

John’s comic act evoked laughter from everyone.

Her song evoked memories of childhood.

His story was able to evoke the sympathy of the audience.

The little boy’s words evoked a smile to my face.

When compared to invoke, evoke is not as direct or active. Evocation of someone’s memories and emotions are often an involuntary action whereas invoking implies a deliberate action.

Key Difference - Invoke vs Evoke

Figure 2: Example Sentence of Evoke – “The old photographs evoked happy memories of childhood.”

What is the difference between Invoke and Evoke?

Invoke vs Evoke

Invoke means to call upon something, especially aid or assistance.  Evoke means to recall something to the conscious mind.
Usage
Invoke is often used in reference to a higher power or authority.  Evoke is used with regard to memory or emotions.
Directness
The verb invoke is more direct and active than evoke.  Evoke is not as direct or active as invoke.
Intention
Invoke refers to a deliberate action. Evoke refers to a spontaneous action.

Summary – Invoke vs Evoke

There is a difference between invoke and evoke although some people tend to use them interchangeably. Evoke is typically used with memories, images and emotions whereas invoke is used with a higher power. In addition, invoking or calling on a higher power is a deliberate action whereas evocation of memories or feelings is more of a spontaneous action.

Related posts:

Difference Between Hazard and Outrage Difference Between Assure and EnsureDifference Between Assure and Ensure Difference Between Response and Respond Difference Between Paradigm and TheoryDifference Between Paradigm and Theory Care For vs Care AboutDifference Between Care For and Care About

Filed Under: Words Tagged With: Compare Invoke and Evoke, Evoke Examples, Evoke Meaning, Evoke Usage, Invoke and Evoke Differences, Invoke Examples, Invoke Meaning, Invoke Usage, Invoke vs Evoke

About the Author: Hasa

Hasa is a BA graduate in the field of Humanities and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in the field of English language and literature. Her areas of interests include language, literature, linguistics and culture.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Request Article

Featured Posts

Difference Between Coronavirus and Cold Symptoms

Difference Between Coronavirus and Cold Symptoms

Difference Between Coronavirus and SARS

Difference Between Coronavirus and SARS

Difference Between Coronavirus and Influenza

Difference Between Coronavirus and Influenza

Difference Between Coronavirus and Covid 19

Difference Between Coronavirus and Covid 19

You May Like

Difference Between GATT and GATS

Difference Between Cabling and Wiring

Difference Between Lattice Energy and Hydration Energy

Difference Between Lattice Energy and Hydration Energy

Difference Between Podiatrist and Chiropodist

Difference Between Sucrose Gradient and Sucrose Cushion Ultracentrifugation

Difference Between Sucrose Gradient and Sucrose Cushion Ultracentrifugation

Latest Posts

  • What is the Difference Between Foundation and BB Cream
  • What is the Difference Between Cybrids and Hybrids
  • What is the Difference Between Hapten and Adjuvant
  • What is the Difference Between Omphalocele and Gastroschisis
  • What is the Difference Between Autonomic and Somatic Reflexes
  • What is the Difference Between Plagiocephaly and Craniosynostosis
  • Home
  • Vacancies
  • About
  • Request Article
  • Contact Us

Copyright © 2010-2018 Difference Between. All rights reserved. Terms of Use and Privacy Policy: Legal.