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
But Cox’s interactions were inherently provocative.
—
Ben Taub, New Yorker, 15 June 2026
The most incendiary musical comedy of 2025 will advance to the off-Broadway Orpheum Theatre in October, and its creators are marking the show’s return with, not surprisingly, two provocative events.
—Frank Digiacomo, HollywoodReporter, 12 June 2026
Some of my last few films can be considered somehow provocative.
—Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 11 June 2026
The project, written and directed by Stone, marks a return to the auteur’s singular storytelling and a departure from his past work, offering an intimate and provocative drama that explores family, loss, pain and uncovers how love can change shape during our lifetimes.
—Justin Kroll, Deadline, 10 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Ben Taub, New Yorker, 15 June 2026
The most incendiary musical comedy of 2025 will advance to the off-Broadway Orpheum Theatre in October, and its creators are marking the show’s return with, not surprisingly, two provocative events.
—Frank Digiacomo, HollywoodReporter, 12 June 2026
Some of my last few films can be considered somehow provocative.
—Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 11 June 2026
The project, written and directed by Stone, marks a return to the auteur’s singular storytelling and a departure from his past work, offering an intimate and provocative drama that explores family, loss, pain and uncovers how love can change shape during our lifetimes.
—Justin Kroll, Deadline, 10 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for provocative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for provocative
Adjective
-
Other research has reinforced the idea that reframing a stressful challenge into an exciting opportunity can lead to better performance.—
Rustin Dodd,
New York Times,
17 June 2026
-
Most exciting perhaps is how intuitive the lights are.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
17 June 2026
Adjective
-
At a charged political moment, her relatively sober look seemed intended to keep the focus on POTUS.—
Vogue,
Vogue,
12 Dec. 2025
-
What Happens Next Greene is likely to continue stoking controversy by breaking with her party, as conversations around immigration remain charged and divisive.—
Alia Shoaib,
MSNBC Newsweek,
13 Oct. 2025
Adjective
-
Our editors and critics choose the most captivating, notable, brilliant, surprising, absorbing, weird, thought-provoking, and talked-about books.—
Namara Smith,
New Yorker,
10 June 2026
-
The ways the siblings cope with their versions of reality are quite different, quite haunting and quite thought-provoking.—
Bethanne Patrick,
Los Angeles Times,
1 June 2026
Adjective
-
The applicant list also includes attorneys, bankers, a motivational speaker, a chef and a real estate agent.—
Charlotte Observer,
Charlotte Observer,
11 June 2026
-
Hasley went on to ghostwrite books Passion, Profit, & Power for motivational speaker Marshall Sylver, and The Slight Edge for two-time Olympian Jeff Olson.—
Marina Watts,
Entertainment Weekly,
9 June 2026
Adjective
-
Novelty refers to experiences that feel new, fresh, unfamiliar or psychologically stimulating.—
Mark Travers,
Forbes.com,
31 May 2026
-
But don't be discouraged, as today's disruptions could end up leading you toward something fresh, inspiring and intellectually stimulating.—
Valerie Mesa,
PEOPLE,
22 May 2026
Adjective
-
Want something that leans edgy but isn't too maximalist?—
Daisy Maldonado,
InStyle,
14 June 2026
-
If power dynamics feel edgy, move steadily by naming an outcome and backing a clear request with measurable facts that make approval easier.—
Tarot.com,
The Orlando Sentinel,
13 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Provocative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/provocative. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
