Used when describing a gentle or exploratory action rather than a violent one.

Physical Action

'Poke at' usually suggests reluctance to eat or disinterest in the food.

Not for Eating

Often used when someone is engaging with something new to understand it.

Implies gentle teasing or playful annoyance, not deeply offensive.

Can imply that the teasing or mocking happens regularly.

Highlights a detailed and sometimes negative examination of the subject.

Used when someone is questioning or challenging the truth or quality of something.

Can be used to describe initiating discussions through critique.