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.

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

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

The one that is furthest along, Galleri, was recently the subject of a provocative Super Bowl ad from the Hims & Hers telehealth company, beaming an experimental technology into millions of households.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 2, 2026

The creator, who uses the online handle RadialB, says he didn't expect to spawn copycats or be politically provocative.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

Jeremy Grantham has a new and provocative argument for why the U.S. stock market will produce mediocre returns this year.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 17, 2026

Applying the praise-word “champion” to Adolf Hitler feels a bit odd, and I don’t wish to be needlessly provocative.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith