as in provocative
serving or likely to arouse a strong reaction
the host's provoking opinions are the reason why people tune in to his radio talk show in the first place
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in encouraging
to rouse to strong feeling or action
his teasing finally provoked her to anger bees generally will not sting unless they are provoked
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in raising
to bring (something volatile or intense) into being
rankings that are sure to provoke an argument among film buffs
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
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Recent Examples of provoking
Jazz Tangcay,
Variety,
6 May 2026
Then on May 1, amid the full moon in Scorpio, Venus will harmonize with Saturn in Aries, presenting the opportunity for something fun and thought-provoking to become real.
—
Valerie Mesa,
PEOPLE,
23 Apr. 2026
Alec Lewis,
New York Times,
18 June 2026
Chris Young’s Beyond Earth column explores the intersection of space technology and policy, providing thought-provoking commentary on the latest advancements and regulatory developments in the sector.
—
Chris Young,
Interesting Engineering,
15 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for provoking
Adjective
Ambitious, thought-provoking, thrilling and passionate.
—
Jazz Tangcay,
Variety,
6 May 2026
Then on May 1, amid the full moon in Scorpio, Venus will harmonize with Saturn in Aries, presenting the opportunity for something fun and thought-provoking to become real.
—
Valerie Mesa,
PEOPLE,
23 Apr. 2026
Verb
Instead, as another Browns staffer who raved about Healy put it, real genius lies in provoking discussion and creating tools that help leaders make better decisions.
—
Alec Lewis,
New York Times,
18 June 2026
Chris Young’s Beyond Earth column explores the intersection of space technology and policy, providing thought-provoking commentary on the latest advancements and regulatory developments in the sector.
—
Chris Young,
Interesting Engineering,
15 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for provoking
Recent Examples of Synonyms for provoking
Adjective
-
Digital platforms further amplify provocative behavior, potentially normalizing hate.
-
That can desensitize us to actions that in another context would be seen as deeply provocative.
Verb
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The commission has launched several initiatives leading up to the anniversary, including America's Field Trip, a nationwide essay and artwork contest for students, and volunteer service campaigns encouraging Americans to log community service hours.
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No one was ever charged with pulling the trigger, but three other men, Paul McIntyre, 58, Peter Cavanagh, 37, and Jordan Gareth Devine, 25, were charged with murder as accomplices for encouraging or assisting the shooter.
Verb
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But a fresh start comes with plenty of new challenges — from rival ranchers and relentless cattle work to the unexpected trials of raising their teenage son, Carter (Finn Little).
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SpaceX went public in June, raising roughly $75 billion in the largest IPO on record.
Adjective
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What Happens Next Greene is likely to continue stoking controversy by breaking with her party, as conversations around immigration remain charged and divisive.
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It is made all the more charged, though, because of what this team means in a cultural one.
Verb
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The process involved suctioning the newborn's airway and stimulating him.
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The addition of crushed silicate rock such as basalt to the soil can improve tree nutrition in two ways, either by stimulating tree growth via directly releasing nutrients into the soil, or by increasing soil PH.
Verb
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Kyiv’s forces have especially targeted supplies to Crimea, triggering the worst fuel crisis on the Black Sea peninsula since it was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014 and delivering a blow to the Kremlin’s narrative that Moscow is winning the war.
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Instead, the ultra-rich often hold onto their assets, allowing unrealized gains on stocks, bonds and other investments to compound in value for years without triggering taxes.
Verb
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Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
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Simmer beans, stirring occasionally, until bubbling and thickened, about 5 minutes.
Verb
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Good Chop is dedicated to providing the finest cuts of meat while promoting sustainable practices.
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The company threw a lavish caviar party at Cannes and in May hosted panels promoting its cinematic tool at Amazon’s AI on the Lot event in Culver City.
Cite this Entry
“Provoking.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/provoking. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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