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
Wilson was renowned for his provocative productions, which were often built around his unique approach to staging, as opposed to dialog or narrative.
—
Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 19 Aug. 2025
Read more: Report: Heat, Nets Pull Off Surprising NBA Late-Offseason Trade
Teague's claim may seem a bit provocative, but there is some probable cause to support it.
—Robert Marvi, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Aug. 2025
Fulham’s fanbase don’t come across as a reactive, provocative bunch, but in the worst-case scenario of Muniz leaving and new signings still not forthcoming, their patience would be tested.
—Tim Spiers, New York Times, 17 Aug. 2025
Palihapitiya’s perspective, while provocative, reflects a growing skepticism among some technologists about the durability of traditional intellectual property laws in the face of generative AI.
—Paulo Carvão, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 19 Aug. 2025
Read more: Report: Heat, Nets Pull Off Surprising NBA Late-Offseason Trade
Teague's claim may seem a bit provocative, but there is some probable cause to support it.
—Robert Marvi, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Aug. 2025
Fulham’s fanbase don’t come across as a reactive, provocative bunch, but in the worst-case scenario of Muniz leaving and new signings still not forthcoming, their patience would be tested.
—Tim Spiers, New York Times, 17 Aug. 2025
Palihapitiya’s perspective, while provocative, reflects a growing skepticism among some technologists about the durability of traditional intellectual property laws in the face of generative AI.
—Paulo Carvão, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for provocative
Adjective
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Sailors will also find exciting yachts in the Wallywind 110, the Swan 88, or the Sunreef 60, 70, and 80 models.—
Kathleen Turner,
Forbes.com,
23 Aug. 2025
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On Friday night, FC Juarez faces off with Santos Laguna in exciting Liga MX soccer action, with both teams desperate for a win.—
Ben Verbrugge,
MSNBC Newsweek,
23 Aug. 2025
Adjective
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For context, geomagnetic storms are caused by fiery eruptions from the sun's surface that send charged particles zipping toward our planet.—
Tom Brown,
Space.com,
20 May 2025
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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
Adjective
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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
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Her work is technically amazing, thought provoking and has tons of heart.—
Heide Janssen,
Orange County Register,
17 Mar. 2024
Adjective
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However, matcha’s high levels of L-theanine, a calming amino acid, help balance caffeine’s stimulating effects.—
Jillian Kubala,
Health,
26 Aug. 2025
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Irregular schedules, mentally stimulating activities or late-day naps can also all keep you awake when bedtime arrives.—
Daryl Austin,
USA Today,
23 Aug. 2025
Adjective
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The group exuded a cool and edgy vibe, especially in contrast to the rustic and bright setting of the restaurant.—
Laura Sirikul,
Forbes.com,
18 Aug. 2025
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Honey’s wardrobe is largely feminine, though edgier fashion icons — like Lauren Bacall and Katharine Hepburn — served as inspiration for her wardrobe, Cooke said.—
Rendy Jones,
NBC news,
10 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Provocative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/provocative. Accessed 4 Sep. 2025.
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