It's the kind of thing that can provoke retaliation or fighting, and that's what we want to avoid.

Among other things, imposing import barriers here can provoke retaliation.

The Protestant violence and the decision to let them march provoked retaliation by Catholics.

Many ministers said that Washington's action could provoke more unilateral actions and retaliation, thus undermining world trade.

Freed from its imprisonment, he turned his head, moving very slowly so as not to provoke retaliation.

And there is always the danger that loyalist gunmen will try to provoke retaliation.

They also say the bill would provoke retaliation against American exports and hurt consumers by raising prices.

Their offensive has been intended to provoke large-scale retaliation by right-wing extremists.

They also said the bill would provoke retaliation against American exports, hurt consumers and violate international obligations.

European leaders say the measures are a projection of United States domestic concerns that could provoke retaliation.