provoking
adj.adj. causing a strong reaction, such as anger or deep thought. You use this to describe something that makes people act or feel strongly.
adj. causing a strong emotional or mental response, often intentionally. Frequently used in the compound 'thought-provoking' or to describe behavior that incites a reaction.
The artist's new work is very provoking.
The politician's provoking comments led to a heated debate among the audience members.
While some found the documentary's imagery unnecessarily provoking, others argued that such visceral content was essential to convey the gravity of the environmental crisis.
Usage
Often used as a participial adjective; can appear both before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem'.
Last updated May 6, 2026