provocation

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.

A disclaimer in Jeffrey Epstein’s email signature was a provocation as much as a warning: The contents of this message “may constitute inside information.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

The South Korean military is ready to "respond overwhelmingly to any provocation," JCS added.

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

On a second watch, “Sirāt” became a philosophical provocation — a movie that questions everything we believe about family and security and community and faith.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

This is a movement that thrives on provocation but panics when that very provocation carries consequences.

From Salon • Feb. 11, 2026

The art of provocation was unknown to me, and I would sit with his map upon my lap, the wind blowing my dull, lanky hair, happy in his silence yet eager for his words.

From "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier