as in exciting
serving or likely to arouse a strong reaction
a provocative editorial that sparked a heated discussion
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of provocative
Over the years, the provocative sound has drawn criticism − and even government bans – for promoting songs with themes of crime, drug use and violence.
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Edward Segarra,
USA Today,
25 June 2026
The sleeveless body-skimming dress features a transparent mesh finish that left little to the imagination, totally transforming an otherwise classic LBD into something far more provocative (and brat-like).
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Daisy Maldonado,
InStyle,
25 June 2026
If the provocative language seems unexpected from a CBS News property, the surprise is part of the point.
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Brian Steinberg,
Variety,
24 June 2026
Judges will seek uniqueness of vision, innovation and diversity in storytelling, as well as originality and provocative subject matter.
—
Marcus Jones,
IndieWire,
23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Edward Segarra,
USA Today,
25 June 2026
The sleeveless body-skimming dress features a transparent mesh finish that left little to the imagination, totally transforming an otherwise classic LBD into something far more provocative (and brat-like).
—
Daisy Maldonado,
InStyle,
25 June 2026
If the provocative language seems unexpected from a CBS News property, the surprise is part of the point.
—
Brian Steinberg,
Variety,
24 June 2026
Judges will seek uniqueness of vision, innovation and diversity in storytelling, as well as originality and provocative subject matter.
—
Marcus Jones,
IndieWire,
23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for provocative
Adjective
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Not the most exciting half of soccer considering what else has gone on during the World Cup.
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Johnny is a former professional baseball player, which is exciting for Coop, who comes from a family of ball players.
Adjective
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What Happens Next Greene is likely to continue stoking controversy by breaking with her party, as conversations around immigration remain charged and divisive.
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It is made all the more charged, though, because of what this team means in a cultural one.
Adjective
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The Best Books of the Year (So Far) Our editors and critics choose the most captivating, notable, brilliant, surprising, absorbing, weird, thought-provoking, and talked-about books.
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Chiarella has come up with an ingenious premise that is as twisted as it is thought-provoking.
Adjective
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Vanessa also wears the hats of playwright, motivational speaker, and retreat host, channeling her storytelling gift across multiple creative platforms.
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Norway’s King Harald narrated their squad announcement video, delivering a motivational speech to the first group to reach a World Cup finals since 1998.
Adjective
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However, once the moon slips into Aquarius, the atmosphere takes on a more cerebral, independent and mentally stimulating vibe.
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Instead, the stimulating ingredient added to the product is causing the symptoms.
Adjective
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Yes, leather flats can be edgy, too—and this strappy option is proof.
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The 41st annual Fragrance Foundation Awards, hosted a year later, brought out an edgier energy in Swift.
Cite this Entry
“Provocative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/provocative. Accessed 4 Jul. 2026.
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