at the instigation

USAGE SUMMARY

"at the instigation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone or something is responsible for initiating or inciting a particular action or event. Example: At the instigation of her boss, Sarah decided to pursue a new project at work.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In July, however, he was assassinated, perhaps at the instigation of Darius.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One was made a few years ago, at the instigation of Ratu Kitione Vesikula.

The Economist

It was founded by Louis XIV at the instigation of J.-B.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But he did it largely despite, rather than at the instigation of, EU member governments.

The Economist

Nicholas eventually dismissed Polivanov from his ministry at the instigation of the empress, Alexandra.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Moreso when that blood is drawn at the instigation of foreign countries".

The New York Times

News International, at the instigation of James, instituted important governance reforms.

The New York Times

At the instigation of Hugo Chávez, Venezuela's leftist president, this year six others were freed.

The Economist

Wars occurred in most areas from time to time, mainly at the instigation of competing chiefs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At the instigation of his enemies he was eventually arrested for heresy and treason and executed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Even the Institute for National Remembrance said it was at the instigation of the Germans".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at the instigation of", ensure that the subject responsible for the instigation is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "at the instigation of" in very informal writing. Simpler phrases like "because of" or "due to" are often more appropriate in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the instigation of" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It indicates the cause or impetus behind an action, specifying who or what initiated it. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at the instigation of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig. It serves to pinpoint the originator of an action, often implying influence or a direct prompting. While versatile, it is most common in news, encyclopedic, and formal writing. Consider context when using, as simpler phrases might be preferable in casual settings. Ludwig's examples demonstrate that authoritative sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica regularly employ this phrase, solidifying its validity and usefulness in formal English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the prompting of

Emphasizes the act of urging or encouraging someone to do something.

at the urging of

Similar to prompting, but can also imply a sense of persistence or insistence.

on the recommendation of

Suggests that the action was taken based on advice or guidance.

at the suggestion of

A more subtle form of influence, implying a simple idea or proposal that was followed.

at the direction of

Implies a formal command or instruction.

on the initiative of

Highlights the proactive role of the initiator.

on the advice of

Similar to recommendation, but can imply a more personal or informal consultation.

due to the influence of

Focuses on the power or sway someone has over another.

inspired by

Implies a creative or motivational influence.

under the guidance of

Highlights the role of mentoring or supervision.

FAQs

How can I use "at the instigation of" in a sentence?

Use "at the instigation of" to show who or what prompted a specific action. For example, "The project was started at the instigation of the CEO."

What are some alternatives to saying "at the instigation of"?

You can use alternatives like "at the prompting of", "at the urging of", or "on the recommendation of" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "at the instigation of" in formal writing?

Yes, "at the instigation of" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to clearly indicate the initiator of an action or event.

What is the difference between "at the instigation of" and "because of"?

"At the instigation of" specifically implies that someone or something prompted or initiated an action, whereas "because of" simply indicates a cause or reason.