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.

It would be easy to take Emma’s confession as a simple cinematic provocation, a tone-deaf narrative device intended to make viewers squirm in their seats.

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

On a second watch, “Sirāt” became a philosophical provocation — a movie that questions everything we believe about family and security and community and faith.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 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

Earlier in the year, a new provocation had revived international protests against the bomb.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik