French Conversation · Level 33
90 words
French word
provocant
Pronunciation
IPA/pʁovokɑ̃/
Meaning
- adjectiveprovocative
Example
Son comportement est provocant.
His conduct is provocative.
More examples
Elle a un regard provocant qui ne passe pas inaperçu.
She has a provocative look that doesn't go unnoticed.
Core concept
A pointed word, gesture, or attitude that deliberately presses for a response.
Common phrases
regard provocant
provocative look
geste provocant
provocative gesture
Similar words
provocateur: Showing a clear intention to provoke a response from another person.
insolent: Showing little politeness or respect and therefore seeming rude.
agressif: Conveying an aggressive attitude through a forceful tone or manner.
irritant: Likely to cause minor discomfort, annoyance, or irritation.
Definition in French
Qui cherche délibérément à provoquer une réaction chez autrui par des paroles, des gestes ou une attitude.
Word origin
The adjective provocant is based on provoquer and traces back to Latin provocare, combining pro- with vocare, to call.
Usage tips
- The final t is silent in masculine singular provocant but pronounced in feminine singular provocante.
Other meanings
- suggestiveadjective
Opposites
- calmecalmadjective
- apaisantsoothingadjective
Related words
- provoquerprovokeverb
- provocationprovocationnoun
- provocateurprovocateurnoun