Synonyms

thought-provoking

American

[thawt-pruh-voh-king] / ˈθɔt prəˌvoʊ kɪŋ /

adjective

causing one to ponder or reflect, as by raising questions or issues, introducing new ideas, etc..

The theater company has gained a reputation for high-quality performances that are both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Other Word Forms

thought-provokingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of thought-provoking

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This can be thought-provoking or entertaining, and often holds power to account in the same way mainstream journalists do.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

They can be funny, sad, heartwarming, reflective, thought-provoking or surprising.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 5, 2026

Italy's problems on that front are currently on display at the Museum of the Patriarchy, a thought-provoking new exhibition in Rome.

From BBC • Nov. 25, 2025

Yet in “Mexico: A 500-Year History,” Mr. Gillingham offers a vibrant and thought-provoking account.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

Penelope found this a thought-provoking remark; it would have served as the very definition of irony if not for the fact that it was so sad—but Lady Constance, rather uncharacteristically, said no more.

From "The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book I: The Mysterious Howling" by Maryrose Wood

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023