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.

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

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

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

Even having made two single-season streaming series in the interim, he has seemingly been missing in action, the absence of his visual flair, bent humor and taste for provocation leaving an empty space in theaters.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

In a statement on Monday, the Royal Thai Army said Cambodia's actions "constitute provocation and a violation of measures aimed at reducing tensions", adding that they were "inconsistent" with the terms of the ceasefire.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2025

She could snap with very little provocation, as you know.

From "The Teacher’s Funeral" by Richard Peck