Goad Meaning in English
word
Definition
To push or encourage someone to do something, often by making them feel annoyed or challenged. It can also mean a tool used for prodding animals, but is mostly used for urging people.
Usage & Nuances
'Goad' is slightly formal and often implies provoking someone persistently. Common collocations: 'goad someone into doing', 'goad by teasing'. It can be both positive (motivation) or negative (annoyance). Distinct from simply asking or suggesting.
Example Sentences
She tried to goad her friend into joining the race.
basic
The coach used jokes to goad the team to try harder.
basic
Sometimes, a little criticism can goad people to do better.
natural
His brother kept trying to goad him into arguing, but he stayed calm.
natural
Don’t let them goad you into making a bad decision.
natural
He used a stick to goad the cattle forward.
basic