thought-provoking

American  

[thawt-pruh-voh-king] / ˈθɔt prəˌvoʊ kɪŋ /

adjective

1. causing one to ponder or reflect, as by raising questions or issues, introducing new ideas, etc..

   The theater company has gained a reputation for high-quality performances that are both thought-provoking and entertaining.

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Other Word Forms

• thought-provokingly
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of thought-provoking

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

thought-provoking

A24 has positioned itself as the film industry’s rebel, funding new and emerging talents producing thought-provoking ideas.

From Salon ● Jun. 23, 2026

This can be thought-provoking or entertaining, and often holds power to account in the same way mainstream journalists do.

From BBC ● Mar. 31, 2026

Where “Warhead” does look ahead, it is by turns thought-provoking and terrifying.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 10, 2025

For a while we had fun, slipping into an easy rhythm, having thought-provoking conversations and sharing things about our upbringing that affect us today and ways to break cycles.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 28, 2025

You’ve used your irreverent, hectoring funny and thought-provoking voice to create a space for real conversations about an important subject.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Related Words

• absorbing
• captivating
• exciting
• fascinating
• gripping
• inspirational
• interesting
• intriguing
• provocative
• riveting