provocative
/pɹəˈvɒk.ə.tɪv/
Group 12Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Causing annoyance, anger, or another strong reaction, especially deliberately GRE
Example in Context
The artist's provocative installation, featuring shredded flags, sparked a heated national debate about the limits of free expression.
Synonyms
stirringcontroversialbold
Etymology
Means 'calling forth', often stirring strong reactions.
- pro- (Latin) — forth
- vocare (Latin) — to call
Memory Aid
🔥Sounds like “provoke a tiff”
Imagine someone intentionally PROVOKING A TIFF by wearing a shirt that says 'I hate puppies'!
Visual Association
😡A heated debate erupts over a sign that reads 'Cats are better than dogs', igniting fiery arguments.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “provocative” mean on the GRE?
provocative (adjective) means “Causing annoyance, anger, or another strong reaction, especially deliberately”. The artist's provocative installation, featuring shredded flags, sparked a heated national debate about the limits of free expression.
How to remember “provocative” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “provocative” sounds like “provoke a tiff”. Imagine someone intentionally PROVOKING A TIFF by wearing a shirt that says 'I hate puppies'!
What are synonyms for “provocative”?
Common synonyms: stirring, controversial, bold.