provoke
verb (used with object)
to anger, enrage, exasperate, or vex.
is provoking
-
present progressiveof provoke (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
"Cinema can do something better, which is provoking empathy."
From BBC ● Jan. 20, 2026
But how to decide what behavior crosses the line is provoking vastly different responses on campuses.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 15, 2023
He is provoking his spectators, absolutely, but to what end?
From New York Times ● Jul. 20, 2022
But P.1 — along with variants found in South Africa and Britain — is provoking particular concern.
From Washington Post ● Jan. 27, 2021
Borrow is provoking, and has his full share of faults, and, though the owner of a style, is capable of excruciating offences.
From Obiter Dicta Second Series by Augustine Birrell
