provocative
Her provocative question about the company's ethics silenced the room.
The question was designed to challenge norms and cause a strong emotional or intellectual response.
causing anger, upset, or other strong reaction, especially deliberately
The artist's provocative installation challenged traditional views on gender.
The artwork was designed to disturb or challenge the audience's established beliefs.
Often implies a deliberate intent to stir controversy or debate.
arousing sexual desire or interest
He wore a provocative outfit to the party.
His clothing was designed to attract sexual attention.
Commonly used to describe clothing, behavior, or images that are sexually suggestive.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context is Key
Determine if 'provocative' refers to intellectual debate (e.g., a provocative idea) or sexual attraction (e.g., a provocative dress) based on the surrounding nouns.
Gold Rule
Intent Matters
Unlike 'offensive', which describes the effect on the receiver, 'provocative' often implies the sender's intent to stir up a response.
Word Origin
From Latin provocativus, from provocare 'to call forth, challenge', from pro- 'forth' + vocare 'to call'.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with this word as it can imply either intellectual stimulation or sexual suggestion depending on context. It often carries a negative connotation of being deliberately annoying or offensive.