C1adverbmediaarts
US/prəˈvɑː.kə.tɪv.li/
UK/prəˈvɒk.ə.tɪv.li/
in a way that is meant to make people angry, excited or eager to react
In context
The article was provocatively titled 'Why university is a waste of time'.
He smiled provocatively and asked if anyone disagreed with him.
The museum provocatively placed modern rubbish next to ancient pottery.
Words that go with provocatively
adverb + adjective
- provocatively titledShe wrote a provocatively titled book about money and happiness.
- provocatively dressedThe singer appeared provocatively dressed on the magazine cover.
- provocatively namedThe bar is provocatively named after a famous prison.
- provocatively entitledHis essay, provocatively entitled 'Against Homework', was shared thousands of times.
verb + adverb
- argue provocativelyThe author argues provocatively that cars should be banned from city centres.
- ask provocatively'So who's paying tonight?' she asked provocatively.