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

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

Franz Rosenzweig started his most provocative work of philosophy in the trenches of World War I.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

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

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson