Provokingly: meaning, definitions and examples

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provokingly

 

[prəˈvəʊ.kɪŋli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a way that causes annoyance or anger

Provokingly is an adverb that describes an action or behavior that intentionally irritates or angers someone. It is often used to describe someone's behavior or speech that is meant to provoke a reaction or stir up emotions.

Synonyms

aggravatingly, annoyingly, irritatingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
provokingly

As noted previously: used when someone or something is causing a reaction, especially one that is intended to cause anger or another strong feeling.

  • He smirked provokingly, which only made her angrier.
  • The way he spoke was intentionally provokingly.
annoyingly

Describes something that causes slight anger or irritation, usually due to repetitive or persistent actions.

  • She kept tapping her pen annoyingly during the meeting.
  • The dog barked annoyingly all night.
irritatingly

Used when describing something that is causing annoyance, often because it disrupts someone's peace or comfort.

  • He spoke irritatingly loudly in the quiet library.
  • The buzzing of the mosquito was irritatingly persistent.
aggravatingly

Used to describe something that makes a situation worse or more severe, often frustratingly so. This adverb has a negative connotation.

  • The traffic moved aggravatingly slowly during rush hour.
  • His behavior was aggravatingly reckless.

Examples of usage

  • He grinned provokingly, knowing he was getting on her nerves.
  • She raised her eyebrows provokingly, challenging him to respond.
  • The child laughed provokingly after teasing his sibling.
  • The politician's comments were meant to be provokingly controversial.
  • The comedian acted provokingly towards the heckling audience member.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'provocare,' meaning 'to call out,' highlighting its roots in stimulating reactions.
  • It entered the English language in the 17th century, showing how long the concept of evoking feelings has been important.
  • Unlike its Latin roots, the English use often emphasizes the emotional side of provoking.

Literature

  • In literary works, characters often speak or act provocatively to challenge others or drive the plot.
  • Famous authors like Shakespeare used provocative dialogue to engage audiences and explore complex themes.
  • Many poems feature provocative imagery that inspires deep thoughts and emotional responses.

Psychology

  • Provocative statements can trigger psychological responses, leading to discussions about emotional intelligence.
  • Understanding how provocation affects behavior can enhance conflict resolution techniques.
  • It's been shown that provoking thought can lead to greater cognitive engagement and problem-solving.

Art

  • Artists often create provocative pieces to challenge societal norms and spark conversations.
  • Famous artworks, such as those by Banksy, are designed to provoke thought and even outrage, reflecting on current issues.
  • Film directors use provocative scenes to engage audiences, making them reconsider their views on sensitive topics.

Pop Culture

  • Provocation is a common theme in reality TV shows, where contestants often stir drama to entertain viewers.
  • Musicians frequently use provocative lyrics to challenge listeners and push the boundaries of their genre.
  • Social media influencers often gain traction by posting provocative content, invoking strong reactions from followers.

Translations

Translations of the word "provokingly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 provocativamente

🇮🇳 उत्तेजक ढंग से

🇩🇪 provozierend

🇮🇩 dengan provokatif

🇺🇦 провокаційно

🇵🇱 prowokacyjnie

🇯🇵 挑発的に (ちょうはつてきに)

🇫🇷 de manière provocante

🇪🇸 provocativamente

🇹🇷 kışkırtıcı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 도발적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل استفزازي

🇨🇿 provokativně

🇸🇰 provokatívne

🇨🇳 挑衅地 (tiǎoxìn de)

🇸🇮 provokativno

🇮🇸 ögrandi

🇰🇿 арандатушылықпен

🇬🇪 პროვოკაციულად (provokatsiulad)

🇦🇿 təhriklə

🇲🇽 provocativamente