One detail of the painting, a distinct blue mark on the side of the woman's left breast, has provoked speculation through the years.

When the others disappear into literal and symbolic bushes, Ellis is provoking speculation on what they've been up to.

The attack on the Vinkus student provoked gossip and speculation.

Presumably it was hollow - which provoked endless speculation about what might be inside.

What he might have meant by this provoked frantic speculation about possible conspiracies.

They do not put the rates on paper anywhere, for fear they might leak to the markets and provoke speculation.

The no-frills edition provoked speculation about when a special edition would be released.

That the play provokes such speculation is part of its power.

It is probably now too late, but the subject continues to provoke speculation.

On a political level, his resignation provoked speculation about who might succeed him.