Causare vs. provocare
While both 'causare' and 'provocare' in Italian mean 'to cause', they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Causare
'Causare' is generally used for more neutral or unintentional causes. It often refers to direct, logical consequences or scientific causes.
Il fumo può causare il cancro.
(Smoking can cause cancer.)
L'incidente ha causato un ingorgo stradale.
(The accident caused a traffic jam.)
La siccità ha causato la perdita del raccolto.
(The drought caused crop failure.)
Provocare
'Provocare' often implies a more active or intentional causing of something, frequently with negative connotations. It can mean to provoke, incite, or trigger.
Il suo commento ha provocato una forte reazione.
(His comment provoked a strong reaction.)
La nuova legge ha provocato proteste di massa.
(The new law sparked mass protests.)
Il politico ha provocato l'ira dei suoi oppositori.
(The politician incited the anger of his opponents.)
Summary
While 'causare' is used for more neutral, direct causes, often in scientific or logical contexts, 'provocare' implies a more active or intentional causing, often with negative or emotional implications. 'Causare' might be used for natural phenomena or unintended consequences, while 'provocare' is more likely to be used for human actions that stir up reactions or emotions.