as in exciting
serving or likely to arouse a strong reaction
a provocative editorial that sparked a heated discussion
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of provocative
This time around, though, the issue isn't Trump's personal behavior or his provocative rhetoric.
—
Susan Page, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
However, those brave souls willing to indulge in its provocative nightmares will be rewarded with newfound understandings and perhaps even a few sleepless nights.
—Jeff Spry, Space.com, 16 Apr. 2025
Branden Jacobs Jenkins Acclaimed playwright Jacobs-Jenkins is known for his bold, provocative work that examines race, identity and history.
—Clare Fisher, People.com, 16 Apr. 2025
At the beginning of the decade, the provocative, expressive experimentation of artists like Madonna and Jackson had foregrounded women’s desires.
—Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Susan Page, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
However, those brave souls willing to indulge in its provocative nightmares will be rewarded with newfound understandings and perhaps even a few sleepless nights.
—Jeff Spry, Space.com, 16 Apr. 2025
Branden Jacobs Jenkins Acclaimed playwright Jacobs-Jenkins is known for his bold, provocative work that examines race, identity and history.
—Clare Fisher, People.com, 16 Apr. 2025
At the beginning of the decade, the provocative, expressive experimentation of artists like Madonna and Jackson had foregrounded women’s desires.
—Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for provocative
Adjective
-
Green and Montez Sweat would form an exciting pass-rush duo. 40.—
Thomas G. Moukawsher,
MSNBC Newsweek,
25 Apr. 2025
-
Not every City fan has been on board with their recent approach by any means, particularly because the performances have hardly been too exciting or especially accomplished.—
Sam Lee,
New York Times,
25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
The ceremony came at a charged moment, coinciding with Columbia University canceling its graduation ceremony (and largely closing off its campus).—
David Matthews,
New York Daily News,
6 May 2024
-
Of course, genocide is a charged and redolent term, recalling the systematic precision of the Holocaust and the society-wide butchery of the Rwandan genocide.—
Kristina Hook,
Foreign Affairs,
28 July 2022
Adjective
-
Venture Colonialism There is arguably no single scholar more well versed, incisive, and thought provoking than Stern in analyzing the evolution of joint-stock corporations in the British Empire.—
Caroline Elkins,
Foreign Affairs,
22 Aug. 2023
-
Her work is technically amazing, thought provoking and has tons of heart.—
Heide Janssen,
Orange County Register,
17 Mar. 2024
Adjective
-
Clinicians report treating families that use melatonin to counteract the stimulating effects of caffeine.—
ArsTechnica,
ArsTechnica,
8 Apr. 2025
-
Because of this, the immediate stimulating effect may be milder.—
Lisa DeSantis,
Glamour,
31 Mar. 2025
Adjective
-
This was an older, edgier, and even darker Wednesday (Jenna Ortega) than the dour young girl Christina Ricci made famous in the 1990s.—
ArsTechnica,
ArsTechnica,
23 Apr. 2025
-
The edgy collars and clothing are available now in sizes for all dogs, from XS to XL, with prices ranging from $15 to $95 on FreakOnALeash.com.—
Anna Chan,
Billboard,
22 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Provocative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/provocative. Accessed 4 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share