provoking

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.

Ah, shoot, that’s right: It’s 2026, and provoking people with inflammatory remarks is a billion-dollar industry.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

Its strategy, which has a narrow margin for error, depends on sustaining pressure without provoking overwhelming retaliation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Her style is confrontational and seemingly fearless, often provoking hugely divergent reactions from critics and fans.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

So far, however, Abu Dhabi has largely remained silent, with Emirati professor of political science Abdulkhaleq Abdulla saying the UAE is "not in the habit of provoking our big brother".

From Barron's • Jan. 25, 2026

Word of his cruelty spread throughout the region, provoking jealous admiration among the men of his class.

From "The House of the Spirits: A Novel" by Isabel Allende