Thought-provoking: meaning, definitions and examples

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thought-provoking

 

[ ˈθɔːt prəˌvəʊkɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

adjective to describe something

Causing people to think seriously about a particular subject or issue. Thought-provoking things make you think deeply and seriously about them, often in new and interesting ways.

Synonyms

challenging, inspiring, stimulating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
thought-provoking

Use this word when something makes you think deeply about important or complex issues. It's often used for books, movies, or questions that prompt reflection.

  • The documentary on climate change was thought-provoking and made me reconsider my habits.
  • Her lecture on ethics was very thought-provoking and sparked a lot of debate in the class.
inspiring

Use 'inspiring' when something motivates or uplifts you, often filling you with a desire to achieve or create. It’s commonly used for people, stories, or experiences that have a positive influence.

  • Her story of overcoming adversity was truly inspiring.
  • The speech by the Nobel laureate was inspiring and made me want to contribute more to my community.
stimulating

This word is suitable for situations or activities that are mentally or physically invigorating, encouraging active participation or engagement. It is often used for discussions, environments, or activities that keep you alert and interested.

  • The debate was intellectually stimulating and kept everyone on their toes.
  • Working in a stimulating environment can boost creativity and productivity.
challenging

This word is best used when describing something that tests your abilities or pushes you out of your comfort zone. It can refer to tasks, experiences, or situations that are difficult but rewarding.

  • The math problem was very challenging, but I felt great after solving it.
  • He took on the challenging project to prove his skills to his boss.

Examples of usage

  • It was a thought-provoking film that stayed with me long after I watched it.
  • The book raised many thought-provoking questions about the nature of reality.

Translations

Translations of the word "thought-provoking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 provocador de pensamento

🇮🇳 विचारोत्तेजक

🇩🇪 zum Nachdenken anregend

🇮🇩 memancing pikiran

🇺🇦 змушує задуматися

🇵🇱 zmuszający do myślenia

🇯🇵 考えさせられる

🇫🇷 stimulant pour la réflexion

🇪🇸 provocador de pensamientos

🇹🇷 düşündürücü

🇰🇷 생각을 자극하는

🇸🇦 يثير التفكير

🇨🇿 podněcující k zamyšlení

🇸🇰 podnecujúci k zamysleniu

🇨🇳 发人深省

🇸🇮 spodbuden za razmišljanje

🇮🇸 örvandi hugsun

🇰🇿 ойландыратын

🇬🇪 აზროვნების პროვოკაცია გამომწვევი

🇦🇿 düşündürən

🇲🇽 provocador de pensamientos

Etymology

The term 'thought-provoking' originated in the mid-19th century, combining the words 'thought' and 'provoking'. It gained popularity due to the increasing focus on critical thinking and intellectual stimulation during that time period. Today, the term is commonly used to describe works of art, literature, or media that stimulate deep thought and reflection.