Provocative: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'provocative' comes from the Latin 'provocare', meaning 'to call forth' or 'to challenge'.
• It began to be used in English around the late 17th century, initially with a broader meaning related to 'calling forth' any response.

Art and Literature

• Many famous artists and writers use provocative techniques to challenge societal norms and provoke thoughts, such as Picasso's Cubism.
• Provocative literature often includes themes that spark debate, such as censorship, sexuality, or political views, as seen in works like 'Lolita' by Nabokov.

Psychology

• In psychology, a provocative statement or action can elicit a range of emotional responses, enhancing engagement or discussion.
• Provocative discussions are often used to break down barriers and encourage deeper thinking in educational settings.

Pop Culture

• In modern media, provocative content is often designed to go viral by shocking the audience, like controversial advertising campaigns.
• Music, like that from artists such as Madonna and Lady Gaga, frequently employs provocative themes to challenge societal norms and expectations.

Social Movements

• Provocative expressions, like slogans or protests, play a crucial role in social movements, pushing people to confront uncomfortable realities.
• Various movements, including feminism and civil rights, have used provocative tactics to raise awareness and incite action among the public.

Ranked #12,231, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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• 12228 oblige
• 12229 imperfectly
• 12230 sporadic
• 12231 provocative
• 12232 lamented
• 12233 perched
• 12234 undeveloped
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