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Showing results for provocative. Search instead for provocativ.
Definitions

provocative

[pruh-vok-uh-tiv] / prəˈvɒk ə tɪv /
ADJECTIVE
aggravating
Synonyms
STRONGEST
challenging disturbing exciting inspirational insulting offensive outrageous
WEAK
annoying galling goading heady incensing inciting influential intoxicating provoking pushing spurring stimulant stimulating
Antonyms
STRONGEST
pleasing
WEAK
repressive suppressive unexciting unprovocative unstimulating
ADJECTIVE
sexually stimulating
Synonyms
STRONGEST
alluring exciting interesting intriguing seductive sexy
WEAK
arousing enchanting erotic heady intoxicating inviting stimulating suggestive tantalizing tempting
Antonyms
STRONGEST
boring unexciting unstimulating
WEAK
repressive suppressive unprovocative

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.

Donald Trump is no stranger to provocative language.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

There’s a difference between making something provocative and outright, intentional provocation.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

Heavily metaphoric and less intimately provocative than the French writer-director’s previous movies, “Alpha” is a domestic drama that may not necessarily be set at the end of the world.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

During the show's five years on-screen, Miley Cyrus' public image became more provocative, causing concerns at the time due to the contrast with Hannah's squeaky clean vibe.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

I couldn’t help walking around it and reading the provocative stickers.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson