as in exciting
serving or likely to arouse a strong reaction
a provocative editorial that sparked a heated discussion
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of provocative
In 1984, then unknown monologist Whoopi Goldberg premiered her provocative, thought-provoking one-woman show on Broadway, torching the rulebook of traditional solo performance in one of the most electrifying debuts of the era.
—
Greg Evans,
Deadline,
23 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
But, when one student made a provocative claim that noncitizens aren’t entitled to equal protection, the debate devolved.
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Eliza Griswold,
New Yorker,
22 June 2026
The seal dribble was seen as provocative and when Kerlon performed his party trick after coming on for Cruzeiro against Atletico Mineiro in a game in 2007, all hell broke loose.
—
Stuart James,
New York Times,
21 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Greg Evans,
Deadline,
23 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
But, when one student made a provocative claim that noncitizens aren’t entitled to equal protection, the debate devolved.
—
Eliza Griswold,
New Yorker,
22 June 2026
The seal dribble was seen as provocative and when Kerlon performed his party trick after coming on for Cruzeiro against Atletico Mineiro in a game in 2007, all hell broke loose.
—
Stuart James,
New York Times,
21 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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At a charged political moment, her relatively sober look seemed intended to keep the focus on POTUS.
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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.
Adjective
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Chiarella has come up with an ingenious premise that is as twisted as it is thought-provoking.
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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.
Adjective
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If adaptability is now a strategic capability, the agency cannot remain in motivational language.
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Damian used to get annoyed with his father's motivational chats about responsibility.
Adjective
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Sensory gardens with calming nature sounds, plants kids are welcome to touch and benches are available to help guests reset in a less stimulating environment.
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Morning or daytime sessions support your circadian rhythm because red light is mitochondrially stimulating and late-night use can disrupt sleep.
Adjective
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With names such as Ulta Beauty, OPI, Joico, and Kentucky Fried Chicken onboard, Warner Bros Global Partnerships’ aim for the campaign is to sell the edgy aspect of the DC-verse, while creating zeitgeist moments that would intrigue young women and families.
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Moody, dark nail colors are still acceptable during the summertime, with shades like cabernet and coffee brown lending an edgy feel.
Cite this Entry
“Provocative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/provocative. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.
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