provocative

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"The electronic health record data are very provocative," said Matt Gentry, Ph.D., chair of UF's Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and a study co-author.

From Science Daily • Jun. 10, 2026

"This aspect needs to be managed. If North Korea acts in a provocative and belligerent manner, it could trigger regional conflict, which could run counter to China's interests," Hong said.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

What we are watching with her is someone collecting new credibility with each provocative and unlikely alliance while the actual content of her work continues largely unexamined by the outlets that cover her rise.

From Salon • May 23, 2026

It is a provocative reminder that while the long sweep of History moves on, we are left with our “makeshift consolations.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

“Prime Minister Macmillan. President Eisenhower. Permit me to address you with the following statement: A provocative act is known to have been committed recently with regard to the Soviet Union by the American Air Force.”

From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin