going to be provocative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "going to be provocative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is intended to elicit a strong reaction or provoke thought or discussion. Example: "The artist's latest exhibition is going to be provocative, challenging viewers to confront their beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

If I was going to be provocative, I would want to do it in Beijing, which I am sure they would have let us".

The New York Times

"Sharjah has moved itself out into the wider international contemporary art world," she said, "and in doing that it's inevitable that it's going to get people who are going to be provocative".

The New York Times

"You know and I know it all depends on who you're talking to, who's on your Rolodex -- and who's on your Rolodex is pretty much someone who's going to be provocative in these statements," he said.

The New York Times

Behind the scenes is more difficult, we forced a bulge in the pipeline and that is always going to be provocative, but without being provocative you don't create change".

The Guardian

"It's going to be provocative!

Forbes

He's going to be provocative, entertaining and, at times, controversial".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"But I'm not going to do something I know is going to be really provocative either.

The New York Times - Arts

"It has taken a lot of time and I think it's going to be very provocative," Sloan said.

The New York Times

I know that I've made things myself that some people like and some people don't and I've made things that I knew perfectly well were going to be more provocative than other things, but in the sense that they were going to be less easy because they... dealt with something or touched on something or involved something that was unfamiliar.

The Guardian - Arts

So you know, in the context of this, we're going to be evenhanded in saying we don't want to see provocative action.

The New York Times

But soon after his appointment was announced, Feinberg began making a provocative suggestion: maybe trial lawyers weren't going to be necessary at all.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "going to be provocative" when you want to indicate that something is deliberately designed to challenge or question conventional ideas and values. Ensure that the context aligns with the intended effect of stimulating thought or inciting reaction.

Common error

Avoid using "going to be provocative" simply to sensationalize content that lacks depth or genuine insight. Ensure that the subject matter genuinely warrants the label and offers substance beyond mere shock value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "going to be provocative" functions as a predictive adjective phrase. It anticipates that something will cause a strong reaction, challenge norms, or spark debate. This is confirmed by Ludwig AI, which identifies the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "going to be provocative" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that forecasts the likelihood of something inciting strong reactions or challenging established norms. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to set expectations for active engagement and potential controversy. Predominantly found in news and media sources, the phrase carries a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse contexts where a deliberate intent to challenge or question is present. When using this phrase, ensure that the context genuinely supports the claim and offers more than just sensationalism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

likely to stir controversy

Emphasizes the potential for disagreement and debate.

poised to generate discussion

Highlights the expectation of sparking conversation and exchange of ideas.

expected to elicit strong reactions

Indicates an anticipation of powerful emotional or intellectual responses.

bound to create a stir

Suggests a likelihood of causing excitement or disturbance.

destined to raise eyebrows

Focuses on causing surprise or mild shock.

certain to challenge norms

Stresses the act of questioning established standards and expectations.

set to ignite debate

Implies the sparking of a vigorous and passionate discussion.

sure to spark interest

Highlights the goal of captivating attention and curiosity.

likely to prompt reflection

Emphasizes the encouragement of thoughtful consideration and introspection.

anticipated to push boundaries

Focuses on challenging existing limits and expanding the scope of what is acceptable.

FAQs

How can I use "going to be provocative" in a sentence?

You can use "going to be provocative" to describe something that will likely cause strong reactions or challenge existing norms. For example, "The artist's new exhibit is "going to be provocative", pushing viewers to reconsider their perceptions of reality."

What are some alternatives to "going to be provocative"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "likely to stir controversy", "set to ignite debate", or "destined to raise eyebrows".

Is it always appropriate to aim for something to be provocative?

No, not always. While being provocative can stimulate thought and discussion, it can also be offensive or alienating. Consider your audience and the potential impact before deciding to be deliberately provocative. Sometimes alternatives such as "thought-provoking" or "stimulating" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "going to be provocative" and "going to be offensive"?

"Going to be provocative" suggests an intent to challenge or question, potentially causing disagreement or discomfort. "Going to be offensive", on the other hand, implies an intent to cause hurt feelings or disrespect. While something provocative might be offensive to some, the primary intention differs. Consider if your message could be seen as "likely to stir controversy" or just plainly "hurtful".