provoke
verb (used with object)
to anger, enrage, exasperate, or vex.
have been provoking
-
present perfect progressiveof provoke.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
From its launch in 2021, Hindutva Watch has been a thorn in the side of Hindu nationalists who have been provoking anti-Muslim sentiment for years.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 30, 2023
Police said a dissident subgroup of Farc rebels which rejected the 2016 peace deal were present in the region and may have been provoking the unrest.
From BBC ● Mar. 3, 2023
All have been provoking huge sobs, and drawing enthusiastic audiences.
From The Guardian ● Jan. 15, 2013
While I have been endeavouring to fill her mind with maxims of prudence, you have been provoking her to reject them.
From History of Tom Jones, a Foundling by Henry Fielding
I have been provoking you on purpose to make you scold me; but I didn't mean a word of the unkind things I said to you.
From Miss Dexie A Romance of the Provinces by Stanford Eveleth
